Hawaii Engineering Group conducted a statewide cesspool assessment for the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands, evaluating more than 1,500 systems across four islands to support EPA compliance and guide long-term wastewater infrastructure upgrades for rural homestead communities.
Client: State of Hawaii – Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL)
Service: Cesspool assessment, wastewater planning, GIS analysis, and infrastructure upgrade evaluation
This statewide assessment addressed the urgent need to evaluate and upgrade more than 1,500 cesspools located on Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL) properties across four Hawaiian islands. With upcoming EPA compliance deadlines and aging wastewater infrastructure, DHHL required a clear, data-driven approach to prioritize improvements while considering the unique conditions of rural homestead communities.
Hawaii Engineering Group evaluated existing wastewater systems using soil conditions, flow data, site constraints, and community layouts to determine feasible and cost-effective upgrade solutions. The study analyzed multiple alternatives, including connections to centralized sewer systems where available, decentralized cluster systems for grouped communities, and modern onsite disposal options designed to meet current environmental standards.
The project produced actionable planning documents, cost estimates, and GIS-based dashboards that allow DHHL to compare options, prioritize system upgrades, and pursue funding opportunities. These tools now support DHHL’s transition toward sustainable, compliant wastewater solutions while improving public health and environmental protection statewide.