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USGS Scientists To Discuss Kilauea Activity, Earthquakes & Hazards; Meeting Also To Share Community News - Join Us!
WCA's Oct. 1 Town Meeting will bring together experts and community leaders for updates on Hawaiʻi’s volcanic activity and earthquake hazards, Parker Ranch, Ormat renewable energy, and the ongoing work of the Hawaiʻi Wildlife Center.
The meeting will open with a special pule from Father David Stout of St. James, who will offer his final pule for a WCA town meeting before his retirement at the end of the year.
The evening’s featured presentation will come from Katie Mulliken of the U.S. Geological Survey’s Hawaiian Volcano Observatory, who will provide an update on volcanic and seismic activity across Hawaiʻi Island over the past year. The episodic lava-fountaining eruption at the summit of Kīlauea has continued throughout 2026. Mulliken will explore the causes and hazards associated with the ongoing eruption, how it compares with past activity, and the current status of neighboring Mauna Loa. She will also discuss the magnitude-6 earthquake that struck the west side of Hawaiʻi Island in May, causing damage and triggering several small landslides. This will include what caused the earthquake, how it differs from other earthquakes on the island, and what residents should know about associated hazards.
The presentation comes at a particularly relevant time for island residents. With an unusually active hurricane season and recent severe weather events highlighting how quickly conditions can change, understanding Hawaiʻi Island’s range of natural hazards, and knowing where to find reliable information when conditions evolve, is an important part of community preparedness. Mulliken will share resources for staying informed about volcanic activity, earthquakes and their associated hazards through USGS resources.
Parker Ranch will provide a community update, including its livestock operations and where its beef program is currently headed. They will introduce Mike Kaleikini of Ormat Technologies, who will provide an overview of Ormat as the new owners of the Hale Kuawehi Solar, a renewable energy project located on Parker Ranch land, formerly owned by Innergex. The presentation will provide an opportunity for community members to learn more about the people connected to the project and the importance of renewable energy for our island.
The October nonprofit spotlight will feature the Hawaiʻi Wildlife Center, which provides wildlife hospital and rehabilitation services for native Hawaiian wildlife. Rae Okawa, Development Director, will share an update on the organization’s annual wildlife rehabilitation work, including the significant increase in native bird patients following recent storms. With seabird fallout season approaching, Okawa will also explain the phenomenon, what community members may encounter, and how residents can help protect and respond to seabirds during the season.
“We are grateful to continue bringing people and organizations together who are doing important work across our community,” said Nancy Carr Smith, President of WCA. “Understanding the natural forces that shape our island help us stay informed, connected and prepared.”
The October meeting will not be livestreamed. Community members are encouraged to attend in person, ask questions and connect with neighbors and local leaders.
This October town meeting will be the last regular town meeting of the year due to WCA's special 10th Annual Mahalo to First Responders event on Wed., November 18 at Mana Christian 'Ohana Kahilu Town Hall, and Waimea’s 66th Annual Twilight Christmas Parade on Sat., December 5.
WCA town meetings are open to the public and are planned to provide a forum for community connection, civic engagement, education and information-sharing.
WCA welcomes new members to join as individuals, families or businesses and support its more than 65 years of service to the community. Those interested may contribute through the secure membership portal on the WCA website or download and mail a completed membership form with dues to Waimea Community Association, PO Box 2622, Kamuela, HI 96743.
For more information, please contact WCA President Nancy Carr Smith at WaimeaCommunityAssociation@gmail.com or go to www.WaimeaTown.org.
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