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CLEANING THE WATERS: SCIENCE, COMMUNITY, AND THE STORY OF GENKI BALLS

Special to The 'Ohana

October 24, 2025
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In this episode of Hangin’ at the Reef, host Jeffrey Rich engages in a conversation with HPU faculty members Carmella Vizza, Ph.D., and Olivia Nigro, Ph.D., about their research on water quality and the ecological implications of Genki balls. They examine how these bioremediation tools interact with Hawai‘i’s aquatic ecosystems, highlighting both the promise and the potential risks of introducing non-native microorganisms. Through data-driven analysis and fieldwork in local lo‘i (traditional Hawaiian taro patch) and streams, Vizza and Nigro emphasize the importance of community-based science and evidence-informed decision-making in preserving Hawai‘i’s natural resources. 

Listen now: 
YouTube: https://bit.ly/4h4OYFP 
Spotify: https://bit.ly/47jAaQq 
Apple Music: https://apple.co/4h6qFXZ 

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