A Department of Land and Natural Resources crew on Thursday retrieved a 20-foot skiff from an Oahu shoreline area that may be debris from the March 2011 Japan tsunami.
The skiff, bearing Japanese characters and vessel registration numbers, was removed from the Sandy Beach area, according to the department. It was the seventh boat reported since February, following six others that arrived on Hawaii shores. Three were on the Big Island, at Kohanaiki, Kawaihae and Kawa Bay. One was overturned on Maui near the Aston Mahana, and two were on Oahu, at Kahuku and Punaluu.
Two large plastic bins were also reported this week, which bore identification marks that may be traceable to Japan. One was located at Kamilo Beach on the Big Island and removed by volunteers of the Hawaii Wildlife Fund. The other was located on Kauai at Larsen’s beach, the department said.
Items with identification numbers, Japanese characters, are reported to NOAA which works with the Japan Consulate in Hawaii to confirm provenance with the Government of Japan. Items not claimed by the original owner may then be disposed.
To report large or unusual marine debris items, especially those that may have attached marine organisms, email dlnr.marine.debris@hawaii.gov and DisasterDebris@noaa.gov. Calls can also be made to DLNR at 587-0400.