The Hawaii Department of Agriculture announced on Apr. 17 an interim rule restricting the transportation of coconut rhinoceros beetle (CRB) host materials within a designated infested area on Hawaiʻi Island.
The new restriction is intended to prevent the spread of the invasive CRB, which poses a threat to local agriculture and native ecosystems. The designated area is generally bounded by Waikōloa Road from Highway 190 to the coast, continuing south to Laʻaloa Avenue and from the coast to its intersection with Highway 11.
According to the department, these restrictions do not apply to plant products meant for consumption such as coconuts, fruits, nuts, edible leaves, or items preserved from decay like lumber and woven hats. Seeds for planting, cut flowers for decoration, rock or sand not mixed with CRB host material, live bare rooted plants that are not CRB host palms, and tissue cultured plants in sterile media are also exempted.
Individuals may conduct activities related to CRB host material without a permit or compliance agreement until May 1 if they act in good faith to complete required training and obtain necessary agreements within thirty days after this interim rule takes effect. Training sessions are scheduled at various locations including West Hawaii Civic Center and Terraformation main conference room throughout late April.
The Hawaii Department of Agriculture promotes cultural resilience by supporting equity in agricultural communities and preserving traditional practices according to its official website. The department manages facilities such as the Waiahole Water System in Aiea according to its official website. It functions as a state government entity tied to both the Board of Agriculture and Biosecurity according to its official website.
Statewide, there are currently 279 staff members employed by the department according to its official website. The agency works broadly “to promote and protect the state’s agriculture and aquaculture industries while blocking harmful plants, animals and diseases,” according to its official site. Additionally, it maintains Hawaii’s unique rabies-free status through strict animal quarantine measures according to its official website.
