Whatever Happened To... An update on past news

Lack of toilets closes Kauai campsite

Answer: For at least five years, Milolii Valley, one of the most beautiful and remote parts of Na Pali State Park, has been closed to camping because of the lack of adequate restroom facilities.

This summer, though, camping will likely return to the area, state officials said.

Milolii, one of the valleys west of Kalalau, is accessible only by boat, and then only in summer. Only day trips, such as those for hunting, hiking and fishing, are currently allowed. Kayakers also use the beach as a rest stop on the paddle from Kalalau to Polihale State Park.

But adventurers used to be able to camp on the pristine beach, until the pit toilet became unsanitary, said Wayne Souza, Kauai parks superintendent for the state Department of Land and Natural Resources.

In 2000 the state purchased two new composting toilets, at a cost of about $10,000 each, for the remote location. But they still sit in the department's storage area in Kokee State Park.

Souza said the need to get proper environmental permits and to make the toilets accessible held up the placement of the facilities. State workers need to build stairs and shelter for the compost facilities, which are essentially large tanks with toilets on top.

Because of budget and staffing cuts, though, action on the project has been delayed, Souza said.

Now, however, most of the plans are permitted, and a plan, with volunteer help, is in place.

Sometime this spring and in time for the summer season, DLNR workers plan to build the structures for the facilities and bring them in via helicopter.

"We'll announce (the availability of camping permits) once the toilets are installed and everything is completed," Souza said.