Environmental Coordinator to Discuss Coqui Frogs, Zika at Kiwanis Meeting

Rob Parsons. Courtesy file photo.

The Kiwanis Club of Kahului will host a talk by Maui County environmental coordinator, Rob Parsons at its meeting this afternoon, Tuesday, May 3, 2016.

Parsons will talk about Maui County’s progress with the battle with coqui frogs, an invasive species that is a threat to Haʻikū and neighboring areas. The Maui County Council approved rapid response funding of $1.3 million dollars in 2015. Parsons will also speak about the threat of dengue fever and the Zika virus in Maui County.

Parsons is a 36-year Maui resident currently serving his 10th year as the Maui County environmental coordinator, a position created by Mayor Alan Arakawa in 2003. He was appointed by Gov. David Ige to the State Environmental Council, and also serves as Maui liaison to Hawai’i Green Growth, and other County, State and Federal agencies as well as community groups and conservation non-profits.

Parsons is also known for his freelance writing and advocacy on eco-issues, with over 170 published articles.

The luncheon meeting begins at noon at Tante’s Island Cuisine located at 100 West Ka‘ahumanu Avenue in Kahului, and is open to the public. Lunch is available for purchase off the menu.