The state Department of Land and Natural Resources has temporarily stopped public access to the Fern Grotto, a Kauai landmark. It took this action to avoid any risk of rock slides from above the grotto in the wake of the state's weeks of heavy rain. The department plans to begin rock-containment work today and estimates it will take about three weeks to complete; the grotto will reopen thereafter. In the meantime, Smith's Motor Boat Service is temporarily reworking its classic Wailua River cruise that normally includes a stop at the grotto, instead touring the river and a Smith's Tropical Paradise Botanical & Cultural Gardens. Visit [www.smithskauai.com].
