Department of Agriculture announces record funding for biosecurity measures and invasive species programs
Record funding for biosecurity measures approved by the state legislature this year will expand the state’s efforts to stop the spread of invasive species such as little fire ants, the coconut rhinoceros beetle and coqui frogs, the Hawaiʻi Department of Agriculture (HDOA) announced Monday.
HDOA stated that its general funds for biosecurity initiatives and invasive species mitigation measures have more than tripled to $19.2 million since fiscal year 2023, with the enactment of HB 1800 (Act 230, Session Laws of Hawaiʻi (SLH) 2024) and HB 2619 (Act 231, SLH 2024).
The department says that this record-level of state investment allows it to be “better equipped than ever to address the complex challenges posed by invasive species and to ensure a resilient and sustainable future for Hawai‘i.”
“This legislation is a necessary step in our long-term plans for the protection of Hawai‘i’s unique ecosystems and our agricultural industries,” said Sharon Hurd, chairperson of the Hawai‘i Board of Agriculture. “We’re grateful to Governor Josh Green and his administration, the Hawai‘i State Legislature and community stakeholders for working in concert with the Department of Agriculture to meet our pressing needs.”
Through Act 230, SLH 2024, state general fund appropriations will increase from $6.2 million to $9.2 million. Act 231, SLH 2024, also provides $10 million for targeted biosecurity initiatives on invasive species control for the following species:
- Coconut Rhinoceros Beetles
- Equipment (drones), chemicals, nets, community engagement – $1.2 million
- Green waste management – $800,000
- Compost reimbursement – $400,000
- Brown Tree Snakes – $240,000
- Little Fire Ants – $1.5 million
- Coqui Frogs – $74,355
- Two-Lined Spittlebugs – $600,000
- Rose-Ringed Parakeets – $300,000
An additional $670,485 has been appropriated for the hiring of positions created include plant quarantine inspectors, entomologists, plant pathologists, planners, environmental health specialists, noxious weed specialists and other support staff.
According to HDOA, key areas of appropriations include:
- Enhanced Inspection and Quarantine Facilities
- Personnel for Funding
- Rapid Response and Eradication Programs
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