Trace levels of selenium detected in Kaunakakai water system on Molokaʻi

Routine water quality testing recently identified trace levels of selenium in the County of Maui Department of Water Supply Kaunakakai water system, which serves the Kaunakakai area of Molokaʻi.

Selenium is a naturally occurring mineral element found in soil, rocks and mineral deposits. Small amounts can enter drinking water through the natural erosion of these mineral deposits.

The initial detection was found in samples collected on July 15, 2026. Follow-up testing of a sample taken on Aug. 11, 2026, confirmed selenium levels of 2.3 to 2.4 micrograms per liter—well below the drinking water standard of 50 micrograms per liter established by the US Environmental Protection Agency and Hawaiʻi Department of Health.

“We understand that the detection of even naturally occurring elements in drinking water can raise questions for our customers,” DWS Director John Stufflebean said. “We want our community to know that the levels detected are very low, and our team will continue to monitor the system and keep the public informed.”

DWS is required to notify DOH whenever selenium is detected in a public water system. County staff will continue working closely with DOH and monitoring the Kaunakakai water system to maintain compliance with federal and state drinking water standards.

For more information, contact County DWS at 808-270-7550.