HONOLULU (KHON2) -- Recent weather and heavy rain brought flooded streams, closed roads and more to all islands. On Oahu, residents saw major impacts on the Ala Wai Canal after the storm brought mass amounts of trash and debris to the harbor.
Over the weekend, residents who frequently walk the Ala Wai said it was the worst they have ever seen.
Some even began assisting with clean-up efforts, attempting to clear debris found close to shore to prevent any blockages.
The Department of Land and Natural Resources Division of Boating and Ocean Recreation announced that it has begun clearing debris from Ala Wai Small Boat Harbor, which is the largest recreational boat harbor in the state.
Officials said "debris and rubbish had flowed from upstream into the ocean entrance of the Ala Wai" and the harbor.
This work is endless. As past experience has shown that once an area is cleaned up, more trash comes in. This debris is generated far upstream; and unfortunately, the entrance to the ocean and the small boat harbor forms a collection basin.
Meghan Staffs, DOBOR Administrator
DOBOR crews worked through Monday, Oct. 28 to remove trash from finger piers.
Officials said a contractor is scheduled to use heavy construction equipment to clear debris from the trap at the mouth of the canal.
"The debris is not a DOBOR issue and outfalls from the stream and under the Ala Wai bridge needs to be addressed to prevent post-storm rubbish from even reaching the harbor," Statts continued.
Statts also added that DOBOR has brought attention to the issue for more than 25 years.