#Department of Agriculture and biosecurity

Much of Hawai‘i’s diversified agriculture falls under this specialty crop designation. Eligible plants must be cultivated or managed and used by people for food, medicinal purposes, and/or aesthetic gratification to be considered specialty crops. 

Department of Agriculture and Biosecurity hosts its final event for the 2nd Annual Statewide Pesticide Disposal Program, taking place on Lānaʻi on March 24, 2026 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Between 2023 and 2024, a total of 39,200 pounds of waste pesticides were collected statewide, including 7,132 pounds from Maui, 12,642 pounds from Lānaʻi, and 833 pounds from Molokaʻi.

A massive fumigation removed 144 tons of potential breeding sites for the invasive coconut rhinoceros beetle, marking a significant step in preventing its establishment on Hawai‘i Island.

Extensive fumigation and removal of suspected breeding areas of the beetle were conducted to stop the spread of the beetle was found in July at Keāhole Agricultural Park.

There have been two incidents that have been reported since May 2025 where coconut rhinoceros beetles (CRB) were detected on Lānaʻi in plants transported from Oʻahu.

House Democrats celebrated the successful advancement of the 2025 House Majority Package on Wednesday, with all seven bills now either passing final reading in both legislative chambers, adopted through companion legislation, or funded through the state budget. All measures now await the governor’s signature.