I am a Maui resident and long-time biker, hiker and trail volunteer of the Makawao State Forest Reserve. A year ago or more, the port-a-potties in the upper lot disappeared.

Rumor had it that the state was unable to find a company when the contract expired. I do not know if this is true, but I know it was cleaner before.

Hundreds of hikers, bikers and equestrians have resorted to using the forest as their bathroom. It’s unsanitary and doesn’t represent the pride we have for our aina.

Used to be dodging doggie poo was the main issue on the trail. Now, there is human feces and toilet paper where we park and let our kids roam.

This is a health issue and if it were a high visibility tourist area, there certainly would be toilet available.

Please work out a solution as it was available years prior. We are grateful to DLNR for the keiki track and trails and I am not complaining about what have been given to enjoy. We just want to care for the area that we love and littering is not the way.

Julia Hendren

Wailuku