Hawaiʻi Island

H5 avian influenza, or bird flu, was detected in a sample collected from the Hilo Wastewater Treatment Plant on Dec. 2.

A helicopter survey conducted on Hawaiʻi Island found eight potential infestations of the coconut rhinoceros beetle. The Conversation talked to Ryan Perroy, a geography and environmental science professor at UH Hilo who oversaw the survey.

The nine-member council officially selected Holeka Goro Inaba as its chair. He said his primary role as chair is to make sure that council hearings operate “in the most efficient, respectful and effective manner.”

Nov. 27 marks the two-year anniversary since Maunaloa, Earth’s largest active volcano, last erupted. A new study suggests that a mineral found in volcanic rock could be the key to unlocking this mystery. The Conversation talked to Kendra Lynn, a research geologist with the U.S. Geological Survey’s Hawaiian Volcano Observatory, about her experience during the eruption and her team’s research.

The performance is on Nov. 13 at 7 p.m. at the Kahilu Theatre on Hawaiʻi Island.

November is National Family Caregivers Month, a time to honor and recognize those devoted to caring for our kūpuna. The Conversation talked to Faye Mitchell, the executive director of North Hawaiʻi Hospice, about the importance of community volunteers to the local caregiving industry.

About two months before Maunaloa spewed lava, geologists detected small earthquakes nearby and other signals. Now a study of the volcano’s lava confirms that molten rock within Earth's crust was rising upward about 70 days before the eruption in late November 2022.

Parker School on Hawaiʻi Island is constructing a new building that aims to balance tech with arts and athletics. The 21,000-square-foot center will house a regulation-size gym, a technology center, a dance studio, a community kitchen and more.

This is the first time the school's girls’ team has qualified for the state tournament in the school's nearly 50-year history. HPR talked with the team’s coach, Sharon Peterson, about their shot at the championship.

HPR recently spoke to the two candidates running for mayor on the Big Island. Kimo Alameda is challenging incumbent Mitch Roth. Does a political newcomer have what it takes to unseat the mayor? Or does Roth hold the edge in the race? Alameda shared his plan if elected.