Trisha Macomber, Educational Specialist at the Cooperative Extension Service in Hilo was honored last week with the University of Hawaii at Manoa’s Outstanding Service Award for 2003. Macomber works with the College of Tropical Agriculture’s Natural Resources and Environmental Management department, based at the Komohana Agriculture Complex. Senator Kokubun and members of the Hawaii State Senate recognized Macomber’s outstanding work with a congratulatory certificate. Andrew Hashimoto, Dean of CTAHR, said Macomber “exemplified the dedicated and conscientious employees” of the college.

Macomber conducted extensive research on the construction and use of water catchment systems, the primary source of water for drinking, bathing, flushing and irrigating for up to 60,000 of the state’s residents. Securing grants of over $30,000 in the past two years to fund the development and implementation of the project, Macomber published Rainwater Catchment System Guidelines to assist homeowners and landlords with information about construction and maintenance of the systems.

Macomber’s work is being recognized across the nation, and during the year Macomber has been invited to present seminars on Hawaii rainwater catchment systems for the American Rainwater Catchment System Association in Austin, Texas, and for the American Water Works Association. Internationally, presentations and posters have also been offered in Palau, at the 3rd World Water Conference in Japan and the International Rainwater Catchment System Conference in Mexico.

Macomber established a procedure for testing water and assisted with the production of bacteria test kits for home use. The contaminated water turns black after incubation; the graphic evidence convinces many residents they need to take action. To encourage the safe usage of rainwater catchment systems, Macomber presents seminars to rural subdivision community associations, senior centers, workplaces, and public gatherings. For more information about the University of Hawaii’s programs in the community, contact the Cooperative Extension Service at (808) 959-9155 or click here to find out how to download a copy of the guide.