Hawaii Invasive Species Council

Abstract: The Division of Aquatic Resources (DAR), Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Program is committed to managing AIS threats to Hawai’i with the goal to minimize the ecological, economic, and human health impacts of AIS through the prevention and management of AIS introduction, expansion, and dispersal into, within and from Hawai`i (State of Hawai`i Aquatic Invasive Species Plan 2003).  The AIS team is based on Oahu and has a limited travel budget to engage in AIS issues on neighboring islands.  We have been working with partners on Molokai, Hawaii Island, Lanai, and Kauai who are interested in collaborating with the AIS team on invasive species issues.  We seek travel funding to collaboratively carryout four AIS control, prevention and research projects:  1) Molokai Gorilla Ogo Control, 2) Hilo Bay Invasive Mullet and California Grass Control Plan, 3) Lanai AIS Assessment, and 4) KISC Strategic Planning AIS support. 

Abstract: From 1993-2003 Kaho`olawe was the site of an unexploded ordnance (UXO) clearance project. During this time invasive fountain grass (Pennisetum setaceum) was introduced to Kaho`olawe from people or equipment from other islands. Since its discovery the KIRC has managed this threat as well as other invasive species including the recent introduction of khaki weed (Alternanthera caracasana) previously not found on the island. The purpose of this project is take a proactive approach to invasive species management on Kaho`olawe to prevent new introductions and eradicate priority target species through the creation and implementation of a comprehensive biosecurity plan. The KIRC biosecurity plan will include implementation and take a holistic approach at addressing various components. 1) A comprehensive biosecurity plan will be written to identify recommended protocols, vectors and quarantine procedures. 2) Ports of departure and entry to Kaho`olawe will be targeted for signage and all vessels entering into the reserve will be required to submit a declaration form. 3) The KIRC nursery currently under construction will have a portion of the plan dedicated to nursery protocols and transportation of materials to island. 4) Career development training will take place through the KIRC Hui Kāpehe Program with a focus on invasive species management. 5) Educational materials regarding biosecurity procedures and safeguards will be distributed electronically as well as during the required orientation provided by KIRC staff prior to access to the island though the Volunteer Program and access request process. 6) All priority invasive species threats will continued to be controlled at Kihei boat house and on Kaho‘olawe.

Abstract: The Hawaii-Pacific Weed Risk Assessment (HPWRA) assists in preventing new invasive plants from entering the State and in reducing the spread of existing invasive plants. This voluntary screening system provides an objective, science-based and accurate method of assessing the invasive potential of plants being imported into and/or planted within the Hawaiian Islands. Research demonstrates that preventing the introduction of invasive species is the most cost-effective option when dealing with invasive species & the HPWRA system is an important component of state-wide prevention measures. The deliverables for this project are: 1) 100+ new or revised assessments fully integrated into the hpwra.org and Plant Pono websites 2) Reports: Annual report to the legislature on HPWRA progress and accomplishments and three quarterly updates; 3) Public presentations and meetings promoting and explaining the HPWRA & Plant Pono website. Measures of effectiveness include: 1) Number of agencies and private sector organizations that utilize weed risk assessments and 2) Number of species that are assessed using the HPWRA. Continued funding for the HPWRA will fulfill prevention objectives highlighted in the 2015-2020 draft Strategic Plan of the Hawaii Invasive Species Council.

Abstract: The Division of Aquatic Resources, Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) program is responsible for the management, control, and prevention of AIS threats throughout the Hawaiian Islands. Outreach is one of our most important tools in preventing AIS spread and raising awareness of the impacts of AIS to Hawaii’s ecosystems. Outreach also provides an important avenue for increasing our early detection efforts through the Eyes of the Reef citizen science program and distributing information on watch-lists of species of concern.  Through workshops, presentations, volunteer work days, and outreach events the program is able to raise awareness on the state of our aquatic resources, the threat of invasive species, and provide opportunities for individuals and communities to be involved in this effort. Currently our AIS materials focus primarily on invasive algae threats in Hawaii and the AIS team’s invasive algae control work in Kaneohe Bay. We are working to broaden the scope of our program to other important invasive species threats in Hawaii. With the support of the Hawaii Invasive Species Council (HISC), the AIS Program has been able to produce a positive outreach campaign which brings about education and awareness to the invasive species issues affecting Hawaii’s natural resource. We seek funding to cover costs for the production of display materials, brochures, pamphlets, workshop, event fees, travel to the Molokai Earth Day event and other promotional outreach swag. State general funds will cover staff time to participate in outreach events, speak to the public, and design outreach materials.

Abstract: The BIISC Outreach Program is building strategies that work for a large island with a small rural population. Our goals include changing attitudes and behaviors toward invasive species management, and increasing personal commitment, action, and responsible decision making. We take a hands-on, program-wide approach to public engagement through our community training and assistance programs, while making use of professional communications firms to develop messaging and products that effectively convey the professionalism and expertise of the BIISC program. Building on successful neighborhood models now working in Waimea, Hilo, Puna, Volcano, Ka`u and South Kona, BIISC will continue to empower communities to advocate for and participate in invasive species control in their own backyards and beyond. Education on core invasive species concepts, raising awareness of BIISC target species, and building support for biocontrol remain important pieces of our education program, as distrust and misinformation about invasive species management are still common on the Big Island. Significant outreach effort will go towards early detection surveys in Big Island nurseries and promoting the Plant Pono Endorsement to incentivize the use of best management practices and reduces the risk of interisland movement of invasive species by the horticulture trade.

Abstract: CGAPS is requesting funds for 4.5 months of payroll support and operating costs for the Project/Outreach Coordinator (1 FTE, cost shared by multiple agencies),
and to contract outreach and broadcast media support on LFA and CRB. HISC contributions would support these proposed actions and all the functions of the CGAPS Project/Outreach Coordinator through the end of state FY16. Additional funds to support this position and projects through the end of the 2016 calendar year will be sought from other sources.

Abstract: Invasive species outreach and education is an integral component of on-the-ground control efforts by KISC.  Engaging the community and having them become invested partners is the ultimate goal.  By having a community that cares about the environment that surrounds them we can increase KISC’s capacity by increasing “eyes and ears” and the reporting of new invasive species.  This funding will serve as salary for KISC’s full-time outreach position, support expenses associated with outreach materials, and development of education programs. 

HISC measures of effectiveness and deliverables can be measured in project outputs. KISC’s priorities in FY2016 include a commitment to participate in and support statewide outreach regarding inter-island biosecurity, priority pest species, as well as bio-control and other agriculturally related invasive species priorities.  KISC will also be tracking educational materials produced, target audience numbers reached, and participation in educational programs.

Abstract: Highly trained staff will educate and engage the public at local events and community meetings. Staff will share printed materials and use broadcast media to inform students, teachers, policy makers, funding agencies and the general public about invasive species issues. Staff will continue to actively participate in statewide outreach processes, including efforts to enhance statewide coordination, expand stakeholder engagement, and ensure that efforts are culturally inclusive.
Efforts will continue to build awareness about the little fire ant and will also include outreach events using the LFA detector dog team. Staff will engage local students and teachers through classroom visits using the Hō‘ike o Haleakalā curriculum. Project success will be evaluated using established measures of effectiveness and during annual review by Committee members.

Abstract: The O‘ahu Invasive Species Committee requests $148,158 to support the implementation of statewide outreach from January 2016 to December 2016. Funds will contribute to the salary of the outreach specialist and support staff and pay for related supplies and services. The positions will be housed at OISC and supervised by the OISC Manager. Projects will create and build public awareness and support for invasive species prevention, detection, reporting and control on the island of O‘ahu. 

Abstract: Two outbreaks of LFA were detected on the Island of Oahu, one in Waimanalo and one in Mililani Mauka.  The infestation found in Mililani is very close to home for WMWP as one of our school nurseries is at Mililani Middle School, which is less than 1.5 miles away.  The threat of introducing LFA to forests and recreational areas in the Waianae Mountains is of high priority to WMWP partners.  WMWP is requesting support from proposing to continue outreach, education and student take-home surveys with schools we partner with for native plant nurseries and restoration to prevent the introduction of LFA to new areas on Oahu.  Having students participate in take-home surveys for LFA allows WMWP to reach a wide survey area for detection and large audience for education and outreach. 

Abstract: Naio thrips, Klambothrips myopori, invaded Hawaii in 2009. This pest was first detected in California in 2005, where it caused severe infestation and mortality in ornamental Myoporum species. The level of the infestation and mortality observed in California, gives immediate warning to Hawaii, where Myoporum sandwicensis, locally known as naio, is native species that is not only important in the landscape sector but also an important species in Hawaii native forests. This pest is currently restricted to the Big Island. Surveys from the last three years show that infestation and mortality levels have increased over time. The overall goal of the project is  to aid the overall recovery of the native Myoporum populations in Hawaii. The main objective of the project is to assess the level of susceptibility of native Myoporum populations from neighboring islands against naio thrips by conducting a garden study. The identification of resistant local populations can be particularly important, as it may provide the opportunity to develop a breeding resistance program against naio thrips statewide.

Abstract: Miconia is a listed noxious weed in the State of Hawaii and a HISC-priority plant species for containment and eradication on Kauai, Oahu, Maui and the Big Island. Originally introduced on the Big Island in the late 1960’s; local, state and federal agencies have been cooperatively managing the spread of miconia on these islands since 1990 (Chimera et al., 2000). Herbicide Ballistic Technology (HBT) is a platform that surgically administers 0.68 caliber, herbicide-filled capsules to invasive plant targets. Starting in 2012, The HBT platform became the primary utility in helicopter surveillance operations on Kauai and Maui (Oahu in 2013), for targeted elimination of incipient miconia populations occupying the most extreme boundaries of the invasion fronts. In three years of operations, we have conducted over 90 missions, with over 400 hours of operational flight time (OFT), treating over 13,000 high-value miconia targets, while protecting a total net area that exceeds 17,000 acres of forested watersheds. In collaboration with Dr. Dan Jenkins, we are developing a novel telemetry recording system for HBT operations (HBT-TRS) that can perform basic functions in recording geo-referenced locations and timestamps of all HBT-specific actions relevant to the operation. We are progressing into phase II upgrades that include configurations with a laser range finder. Our latest advancements are going to dramatically increase the spatial and temporal resolution of operational performance analytics with improved accuracy and precision of target offset location and an exact quantification of herbicide dose to target (Rodriguez et al. 2015). The basic unit of measure in this project is target density, which serves as an absolute value of progress, but also serves as a direct influence on operational efficiency values (Leary et al., 2014). Variable costs of operation, by definition, correlate to production volume, which in this study is highly congruent to target density reduction. In 2014, the average variable cost of aerial HBT interventions was down to $8.59 USD acre-1, with a reduction decay rate of 0.57% hr-1 OFT (R2= 0.540) since 2012. With the current state of the technology being fully integrated into miconia management projects statewide, more advanced vetting by peers is warranted with an analyses of cost effectiveness that will allow for more advanced logistical resource planning. This objective will be accomplished through collaboration with Dr. Kimberly Burnett and Chris Wada (UHERO) for developing cost effectiveness models that are spatially and temporally relevant.

Abstract: Although Wasmannia  auropunctata (the Little Fire Ant) is regarded as one of the most serious invasive organisms worldwide, only about a dozen refereed research papers on its control have ever been written, and less than 100 on its biology, impacts and genetics.  This paucity of sound biological knowledge about this species severely hampers any effort to develop efficient and effective management strategies for this species. 

The Hawai‘i Ant Lab seeks to:

1. conduct applied research needed for development of better control methods than those in current use.
2. Increase regional involvement with invasive species management issues
3. Develop a research strategy for LFA, set research priorities and identify funding opportunities in collaboration with research partners from UH and other institutions
4. Investigate the feasibility of forming a partnership with an appropriate agency.

Abstract: We have witnessed rapid mortality of tens of thousands of ʻŌhiʻa trees across thousands of hectares of Hawaii Island. We now know with certainty that the causal agent of this disease is the non-native fungal pathogen Ceratocystis. Here, we request funds to support two (2) full time Post-Doctoral Fellows to pursue complimentary yet distinct investigations into the causes and management of this devastating disease. The first post-doc will pursue the mechanisms by which Ceratocystis develops and spreads – both locally and regionally – within the soil/tree/insect/animal complex of interactions. The second post-doc will investigate Ceratocystis spore viability under different conditions and treatments to provide recommendations for safe disposal, use, transport, and/or sale of wood or plant material, and develop practical and effective means of protecting ʻŌhiʻa trees from this lethal fungal pathogen.

Abstract: HISC-funded technical support for rearing and testing of prospective agents at our USDA Forest Service quarantine, combined with the work of a postdoctoral entomologist, has allowed us to complete testing for one miconia agent (a leaf-feeding butterfly), and initiate evaluations of two others. Given the day-to-day requirements of simply operating the quarantine facility, our ability to pursue multiple concurrent projects is staff-limited. We are seeking continued support for a fulltime technician to maintain ongoing projects next year, with focus on a miconia fruit gall wasp identified as a high priority because of its potential to impact reproduction and limit spread. Additional technical support will also allow maintenance of quarantine colonies of a Tibouchina/Melastoma-feeding flea beetle that should be ready for field release next year, and a miconia stem weevil still undergoing tests. We also seek support for a focused effort facilitating development of a Clidemia/Miconia-galling nematode with collaborators in Brazil and South Carolina. A new USDA-funded project with this nematode provides the opportunity to leverage studies that will assess its specificity and demonstrate its suitability for biocontrol in Hawaii. Together, these efforts are critical steps toward developing agents for managing several of Hawaii’s most invasive plant species, including Miconia calvescens, Clidemia hirta, Tibouchina herbacea and Melastoma septemnervium (as well as Tibouchina longifolia, Pterolepis glomerata, Melastoma sanguineum and Tetrazygia bicolor).

Abstract: The Division of Aquatic Resources (DAR), Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Program is committed to managing AIS threats to Hawai’i with the goal to minimize the ecological, economic, and human health impacts of AIS through the prevention and management of AIS introduction, expansion, and dispersal into, within and from Hawai`i (State of Hawai`i Aquatic Invasive Species Plan 2003).  The AIS team is based on Oahu and has a limited travel budget to engage in AIS issues on neighboring islands.  We have been working with partners on Molokai, Hawaii Island, Lanai, and Kauai who are interested in collaborating with the AIS team on invasive species issues.  We seek travel funding to collaboratively carryout four AIS control, prevention and research projects:  1) Molokai Gorilla Ogo Control, 2) Hilo Bay Invasive Mullet and California Grass Control Plan, 3) Lanai AIS Assessment, and 4) KISC Strategic Planning AIS support.

Abstract: DOFAW’s Molokai Forest Reserve consists of approximately 11,690 acres of a mixture of timber plantation, native forests, as well as non-native forests. Of these 11,690 acres of forest reserve, 5,770 acres is situated within the Molokai Forest Reserve – Wailau section. Control and monitoring efforts will continue to target the only known population of kahili ginger located within the valley area. This area is located adjacent to both the DOFAW’s Olukui Natural Area Reserve and The Nature Conservancy’s Pelekunu Preserve. In addition to the upper reaches of Wailau valley, these areas are primarily comprised of intact native forests and have been classified as ‘highest quality native ecosystem’ in the DOFAW’s 2009 Molokai Forest Reserve Management Plan’s levels of vegetation classification. The DOFAW Maui Nui Forestry Section’s goals are to 1) Maintain current overall management efforts specifically for this project; 2) continue to maintain frequency of treatments and monitoring schedule; 3) Continue to maintain zero tolerance of incipient kahili ginger population located within the core area; and 4) Continue to monitor and maintain any early detection of kahili ginger populations, as well as detection of other incipient weed populations that may establish and threaten adjacent native forests.

Abstract: Strawberry guava is one of the most ecologically damaging invasive species in Hawaii. The highly anticipated bio-control agent, Tectococcus ovatus, was approved for release in 2014 and promises to have positive effects on slowing the spread of strawberry guava. In order to become successfully established in the wild, the agent needs to be introduced to appropriate sites across the landscape. This project will provide funding to DOFAW and partnering agencies (WMWP and KMWP) to continue on-going long-term monitoring of two Oahu sites and expand Tectococcus introductions across the island of Oahu.

Abstract: Natural Area Reserves are established to preserve in perpetuity representative examples of Hawaii’s ecosystems in as unmodified a state as possible. These ecosystems contain important watersheds, endangered species and their habitats. DOFAW staff have been managing five species of plants (Ehrharta stipoides, Hedychium gardnerianum, Platymiscium stipulare, Pterolepis glomerata and Sphagnum palustre) at Pahole, and Kaala NARs that have limited ranges but have a high potential to significantly alter the ecosystems in which they are found. This ongoing effort has been successful in reducing the infected area and potential spread and impact of these species to Hawaiian ecosystems. DOFAW is requesting critical funding to support ongoing incipient control management actions for these species. Separate proposals have been submitted to HISC to control incipient invasive species at Poamoho.

Abstract: The coconut rhinoceros beetle (Oryctes rhinoceros) was detected in December 2013 on Oahu at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-­Hickam (JBPH-­HI). A response program was jointly created by APHIS and HDOA with assistance from a wide-­‐range of groups until funding was allocated allowing the hiring of a dedicated response team utilizing USDA funding from Federal Fiscal Year (FFY) 2014 Farm Bill of which $1.44 million was allocated to HDOA. This funding, supplemented by State Fiscal Year FY 2015 funding from the HISC, DLNR and Container Fees has formed the basis of the response and research programs. The program has successfully delimited the infestation on Oahu and will be expanding detection programs on other islands. To continue the program, the response needs an annual funding of $2.5 million. This does not encompass research needs or surge capacity should the situation be significantly altered, e.g. a detection of breeding site(s) off of JBPH-­HI. Further, the risk of the beetle spreading to other islands is still high. This omni-­bus project includes funding for the following:

• Field staff for operations to detect, control, contain, and eradicate CRB.
• Outreach and education staff for statewide messaging to report CRB and green waste issues.
• Conduct research needed for method development for detection and control of CRB.
• Destroy high risk material as part of a green waste management plan.

Abstract: The Department of Research and Development in partnership with Parks and Recreation (P&R) will establish a Pesticide Treatment Voucher Program to reduce, control and eradicate surrounding areas of the county parks and facilities that are currently being treated through the P&R Little Fire Ant Control Program. Funding will go to CTAHR to compile educational training materials as well as monitor results of treatment. Additional funds will be granted to HCEOC to employ a HCEOC coordinator dedicated to providing the educational training to community members. The remaining portion of the funds will go towards pesticides, equipment, transportation needs, as well as the purchase of an unmanned aerial vehicle to help treat areas where lift trucks are not able to service.

Abstract: BIISC seeks funds for the chemical control of albizia trees, one component of a comprehensive hazard mitigation plan to protect transportation and powerline corridors in East Hawaii. This plan can serve as a model for other islands seeking an economically feasible approach to managing invasive. The plan includes three distinct but complementary components:
1. Physical removal (i.e., cutting down or “hard trimming”) of all hazard trees bordering high priority public roads and primary transmission lines. Prioritization was based on number of
residents served, road traffic (ADT) and availability of alternate routes. Work is conducted by certified arborists using cost savings approaches developed by the working group.
2. Chemical control of all non-hazard trees, saplings, and seedlings within, immediately adjacent to, and surrounding priority tree removal corridors. Volunteer labor is utilized in this area to
supplement labor by crews from BIISC and other agencies.
3. Community outreach and empowerment through provision of information, training, and initial supplies. Outreach staff will work with both landowners and key partners to secure
access and financial resources, and support developing albizia control teams (Ready to ACT!).

Abstract: The Island of Hawaii has extraordinary natural resources with more than 75% of the state’s strategic conservation lands, more than half the Agricultural Lands of Importance to the State,
and economically important horticulture and agriculture industries. Despite ample acreage our forest support 98 threatened or endangered species, and the island has become known as a hot
spot for new invasive alien pests. Invasive alien species (IAS) pose one of the greatest threats to the long-term viability of native ecosystems, watersheds, and a thriving agricultural and
horticultural trade. This funding request will support core operations, including a full time, professional staff battling nine priority plant target species with the goal of island-wide
eradication. The requested funds include basic infrastructure, managerial, and operational support for five other BIISC proposals, which collectively will be leveraged by at least $465,000
in already confirmed federal and private funds. In 2015, HISC funds awarded to BIISC were matched by other funders at just better than 100% (51% external funds, about $950,000).

Abstract: Hawaii Island is the agricultural and horticultural center of the State of Hawaii. A vigorous nursery import trade puts the island and the entire state at risk from imported invasive plants
and pest species. BIISC’s early detection team has proven the effectiveness of roadside surveys (4000 miles, 140 new plant records, 5 effective eradications) and nursery surveys (20 nurseries
surveyed, 10 noxious/invasive pests discontinued from sales, LFA detected in 4 nurseries, including two in new regions, 20 nurseries signed on to the Plant Pono Endorsement Program,
and 6 officially endorsed). Funding provided under this proposal will be used to expand nursery surveys in 2016, to continue roadside surveys in invasive species hot-spot zones, to publish
technical reports, and to develop technology for detection and mapping invasive plants. The BIISC early detection program seeks every year to raise the bar on detection of new threats and
cost effectiveness of response and control.

Abstract: Axis deer threaten native forest and watershed health, impact critical habitat, reduce agricultural productivity, and pose serious risks to human safety. During the past 12 months,
BIDWG continued to meet quarterly, formalized proceedings, worked through partners to maintain response, proactive survey, and outreach capacity in Ka`u, South Kona, and Kohala,
and completed hiring of two wildlife biologist/hunter positions in May, 2015. BIDWG has also redefined the mission and purpose of the BIISC vertebrate team: to prevent the establishment
of new vertebrate threats on the island of Hawaii. BIISC will continue to maintain this small program and support the mission by meeting four objectives: 1) Ensure any remaining deer on
the Big Island are detected and dispatched; 2) Respond rapidly, intelligently, and effectively to new vertebrate introductions and known incipient populations (e.g. rabbits, exotic game
animals) where capacity does not already exist; 3) Provide ongoing capacity to eradicate remnant populations of invasive vertebrates in special ecological areas (SEAs); 4) Continue to
expand stakeholder involvement, participation, and support.

Abstract: The Hawai`i Ant Lab is housed within the Hawai`i Department of Agriculture which provides funding for industry support as well as infrastructure support to the unit.  This proposal is for the provision of core funds that will allow the Hawai`i Ant Lab to provide ongoing support to the HISC, island Invasive Species Committees and to the general public.  This funding maintains a “critical mass” needed to provide these support services.

Abstract: The Hawaii Biodiversity Information Network (HBIN) infrastructure and suite of web-based products, tools, databases and technical systems provide: invasive species early detection education, in the form of identification guides, fact sheets and field guides; a user-friendly pest reporting system with a web-based reporting form and supporting database; a rapid and rule-based pest report review and assessment framework; management of and access to Weed Risk Assessments; and several notification-based tools that facilitate interagency communication. All of these products are housed on HBIN dedicated servers at the University of Hawaii (UH) – Mānoa Data Center and the program is currently administered and managed by the Pacific Cooperative Studies Unit (PCSU) – UH-Mānoa.

The online reporting system, Report-A-Pest (www.reportapest.org), represents an intersection of specialized technology and focused invasive species early detection outreach and education. Reports are tracked and managed in a database that allows trained screeners to determine the identity of the reported species and forward these reports to the responsible responding agency. This process is distributed and transparent. The framework allows for individuals from multiple islands and agencies to participate in the review and assessment process. Perhaps most importantly, communication is maintained with the initial reporter, allowing for both education on current invasive species management in Hawaii and final resolution to the report.

Additional tools and systems include the Hawaii Weed Risk Assessment (WRA) application and database, Interagency Rapid Notification System (IRNS), Pest Report Access Tool (PRAT) and a “pilot” 643-Pest Hotline report form that could potentially facilitate the integration of online and phone-based pest reporting systems.  The HBIN also provides web hosting services for partner websites.

All of these products and services are in various stages of use, development or maintenance.  Attention must be given to each one in order to: reach programmatic goals; facilitate increased partner engagement and use; bring developing products into full production and use; respond to user feedback and feature change requests for existing products; and provide on-going maintenance and updates to reflect evolving technologies.  The proposed work is a reflection of these needs.

Abstract: KISC continues to work on goals outlined by the HISC Established Pests Working Group and the revised Strategic Plan.  Priority is given to early detection, response, and control of various plants, vertebrates, and insect targets. KISC’s top priority species include miconia, long thorn kiawe, mongoose, little fire ant, and coqui frog, as well as other newly introduced plant species.  Funding from HISC is the core for maintaining KISC’s capacity as an ongoing project.  Serving as an integral part of Kauaʻi’s “first line of defense”, KISC works in collaboration with other partners on Kauaʻi as well as statewide groups to address priority invasive species incorporating fieldwork, outreach, as well as current and developing technologies.  Project deliverables will include detection and removal of high priority invasive species, an annual report and supporting data.  Measures of effectiveness will include details of number of species controlled, acres treated and surveyed, and person-hours per target expended.

Abstract: KISC continues to work on goals outlined by the HISC Established Pests Working Group. Funding from HISC will help to maintain KISC’s capacity to respond to reports of mongooses on Kauaʻi, collect and analyze data. The Small Indian Mongoose (Herpestes auropunctata) has had a major impact on native species in the areas where it has been introduced and KISC feels that work on this important priority species will help better clarify possible population densities and move towards biosecurity planning.  KISC works in collaboration with other partners on Kauaʻi and statewide, particularly USFWS, to address the issues surrounding the possible presence of mongooses on this island.  KISC serves as a data clearing-house for mongoose reports as well as work performed regarding response, detection, and trapping.

Abstract: In the summer of 2012, firefighters battled three fires that burned approx. 3,000 acres that impacted five West Kaua‘i watersheds: Hikimoe, Hā‘ele‘ele, Mākaha, Miloli‘i, and Ka‘ula‘ula.
The areas burned consisted primarily of non native species including invasive grasses and invasive Eucalyptus saligna and robusta (Euc).
• May 28 to June 5, 2012 – Miloli‘i fire burned 247 acres in the Nā Pali-Kona and Pu‘u ka Pele
Forest Reserves and Ku‘ia Natural Area Reserve.
• June 28 to July 3, 2012 – Hikimoe fire burned 765 acres in Pu‘u ka Pele Forest Reserve.
• Aug. 16 to 22, 2012 – Fires at Pōki‘i, Paua and Wai‘aka Ridges burned another 2,000 acres.
The DOFAW received an Emergency Proclamation from Governor Abercrombie to mitigate hazards from these fires and reforest the area. This set in motion a series of management
objectives including the removal and control of fire adapted invasive species Euc in the burned areas. This will be achieved through a literature review on previous successful herbicide use and
followed by herbicide trials on site. A monitoring system will track the success of the control efforts and provide a knowledge bank for future Euc control. Long term control will be achieved
through out-planting over 100,000 Acacia koa (Koa) trees, ongoing herbicide application, replanting, tree pruning and overall plantation maintenance. These Koa will be used for a
orchard for seed stock for emergency and planned restoration elsewhere in the Kokee area; as well as selective harvest of high value trees.

Abstract: Feral goats are among the most harmful invasive species on oceanic islands, including Hawai‘i. They are notorious for destroying vegetation, increasing erosion, and thriving in a range of habitat types. Females can produce up to 4 offspring a year through frequent twinning. Naturalized populations are known from only two locations in the Ko‘olau Mountains of O‘ahu, both on the windward side: at Kualoa Ranch, and roaming between private and state-leased land above Makapu‘u Point, Waimanalo. Mouflon sheep, which are similarly invasive in oceanic island environments, were also discovered at Makapu‘u in 2012. In 2013, KMWP and DOFAW joined forces to address both species before they spread into other parts of the Ko‘olaus.
At Kualoa, 46 goats have been removed by these efforts. The goal is to eradicate this population by December 2016. At Waimanalo, a total of 20 sheep have been removed and wild sheep on O‘ahu are now considered eradicated. 169 goats have been removed as of May 2015. The Waimanalo goat population is considered to be at remnant levels and the goal is to eliminate the remaining animals by December 2015. Therefore this is proposal is primarily for work at Kualoa. If the work at Waimanalo is not completed by December as hoped, KMWP will continue to keep the pressure high to finish the job as soon as possible.

Abstract: The proposed work will implement key goals, strategies and priorities of the HISC Strategic Plan. Island‐wide early detection and rapid response actions will target 30 plant species, 3 vertebrate species, 4 invertebrate pests, and 1 aquatic species. MoMISC will serve as an early detection center for agricultural pests. Detecting and responding to new incursions of little fire ants and implementing the detector dog program will be a high priority. Funds will help retain essential staff capacity, provide helicopter time for control of miconia and pampas grass, and secure
equipment to improve access in East Maui for miconia and little fire ants. The projects offer a cost‐effective approach to invasive species; the requested funding is highly leveraged.

Abstract: Funding from this proposal provides basic support for OISC to continue its successful work of controlling ecosystem-altering invasive species. OISC works to eradicate those species that, left uncontrolled, will so severely disrupt the island’s ecosystem that essential services such as recharge of the island’s aquifer and protection from wildfire will be lost. OISC targets have been prioritized by the OISC Steering Committee and OISC participates in interagency working groups for species such as Little Fire Ant (LFA), Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle (CRB), and Chromolaena odorata. OISC helps protect a wide range of environments by targeting selected invasive species for island-wide or localized eradication. OISC works with multiple federal, state, private and public partners and maintains the support of private landowners who allow OISC field crew access to their property for invasive species control.

Abstract: This project will continue the implementation of an eradication program for the highly invasive plant, cane ti (Tibouchina herbacea), at Poamoho at the summit of the Ko‘olau mountain range. Cane ti threatens priority watershed habitat in Poamoho, a region that hosts 11 animals and 18 plants with federal status, meaning these species are vulnerable to or have a high risk of extinction. A partnership between DLNR DOFAW NARS, KMWP and OISC promises to effectively address the management of this highly invasive plant, which can invade pristine native forest and is found in only one location on O‘ahu. The O‘ahu Army Natural Resources Program is also contributing staff time and supplies. This partnership will utilize highly skilled staff to execute management actions, conduct data analysis and develop adaptive management strategies to ensure eradication.

Abstract: Australian Tree Fern (S. cooperi) and Mule’s-­foot Fern (A. evecta) are major habitat modifiers in Hawaii and believed to be incipient in West Maui. With a few known points in our 50,000‐acre management area, it is crucial that we pinpoint and control their distribution before they become established and require far greater expense to eradicate. Aerial surveys of wide buffer areas around known targets will locate new individuals and enable treatment of targets via HBT.  Treated plants will form a trial cohort specific to West Maui which will be observed 200 days post herbicide treatment for effectiveness.  Treatments will use Imazapyr herbicide capsules whose active ingredient has been deemed effective for both species by managers conducting both ground and aerial methods elsewhere in Hawaii.  The project will conclude with a report and plan focusing on treatment recommendations and species­‐specific management strategies.