67th Hawaii State Science and Engineering Fair Friends of Hanauma Bay Special Awards
Tuesday, April 2, 2024, the 67th edition of the Hawaii State Science and Engineering Fair returned to an all in-person event. Junior level students, grades 6-8, and senior level students, grades 9-12, from across the state had the opportunity to explain their projects to judges. Representing Friends of Hanauma Bay were Lon and Leslie Briggs. They were reviewing projects that had implications for Hanauma Bay and coral reefs for our special Science Fair awards.
Representing the field of Earth and Environmental Sciences was Lilikoi De Martini’s project, “Assessing Coral Strength in a Changing Ocean.” Selecting three corals all found in Hanauma Bay—cauliflower, finger, and lobe—Lilikoi tested their resistance to breakage from an acid vinegar-based solution. Through a series of trials, Lilikoi determined that finger coral was the strongest and lobe coral was the weakest. Lilikoi, as the junior division winner, received a cash award of $100.00 and John Hoover’s book Ultimate Guide to Hawaiian Reef Fishes, Sea Turtles, Dolphins, Whales, and Seals. Her mentor, teacher Brett Kewish, received a cash award of $50.00.
Representing the field of Environmental Engineering was Vera Wang’s project, “Constructing a Novel Aquatic Microplastic Filtration Device Utilizing Natural, Biodegradable Materials.” Vera collected microplastics from Waimanalo Beach and used parts of coconuts as the natural filtration devices. Since coconuts are found on the island and across the state, Vera used the coconuts, cut them into horizontal and vertical halves, and then used their fibers as the actual filtrating materials. The microplastics were removed and a natural material was utilized as an environmentally friendly tool.
Vera, as the senior division winner, received a cash award of $150.00 and David Gulko’s book Hawaiian Coral Reef Ecology. Her mentor, teacher Darin Kohara, received a cash award of $100.00.
All four winners received certificates and letters and an invitation to receive a free membership for a year to become a member of Friends of Hanauma Bay.
