HEER Office

The Hawaiian Islands background metals study has been in progress for several years and incorporates soil sample data from several technical and scientific sources. This report presents an evaluation of naturally occurring background concentrations of metals and related elements in the volcanic soils of the seven main Hawaiian islands (Kauaʻi, Oʻahu, Molokaʻi, Lānaʻi, Maui, Kahoʻolawe, and Hawaiʻi Island). Soil sample data were evaluated using cumulative probability plots, spatial and soil type distribution univariate plots, detailed spatial analysis, elemental association, geochemical analysis and professional judgment to estimate Hawaiʻi-specific background concentration ranges.

For more information on the report see the cover memo.

View the full Hawaiian Islands Soil Metal Background Evaluation Report.

View the summary table comparing background concentration ranges to HDOH Environmental Action Levels (EAL).

Go to the Background Metals in Hawaiian Islands Soils page.