Safeguarding tips provided as Hawaii Island contends with coconut rhinoceros beetle issues
By Eric Naktin
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KONA, Hawaii (KITV) — Coconut rhinoceros beetles (CRB) continue generating issues throughout parts of the islands.
The battle to stop the spread of CRBs includes the Kona region.
Recent operations to work toward eradicating the invasive species were coordinated by the Hawaii Department of Agriculture and the Biosecurity Plant Pest Control Branch. Efforts also involved the Hawai’i Department of Transportation Highways Division.
Crews have already fumigated and hauled away over 140 tons of potential CRB breeding-site material from a nursery in Keahole Agricultural Park in recent weeks. Traps have also been set up.
An online town hall took place last night addressing Hawaii Island concerns and beyond.
Kawehi Young with the Big Island Invasive Species Committee stated, “The number one thing is to inspect breeding material, so things like compost, mulch, things like whole green waste, dead trees can also be a breeding material. We’ve seen CRB moving in bagged soil on Oahu. Container mulch, if you can put it in a sealed container, thick container; that’ll prevent beetles if they’re in that material from coming out.”
Officials said that additional CRB detection traps have been deployed and increased surveillance and monitoring will be ongoing in the surrounding region.
New tools are being worked on to fight CRBs. If you have issues or concerns involving coconut rhinoceros beetles your encouraged to call 1-808-643-PEST(7378).
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