The Hawaiʻi Department of Agriculture and Biosecurity (DAB) has mandated that all individuals and companies handling coconut rhinoceros beetle (CRB) host materials within the West Hawaiʻi infestation zone must secure a state-issued compliance agreement. This regulatory action, enacted under Interim Rule 26-1, aims to curb the human-assisted spread of the invasive Oryctes rhinoceros across the island.
Who is affected by the West Hawaiʻi CRB regulations?
The compliance requirement applies to any organization, company, or individual moving host materials within the designated infestation zone. According to the DAB, the zone is geographically bound by a line starting at Waikoloa Road from Highway 190 to the coast, extending south to Laʻaloa Avenue, and reaching east to the intersection with Highway 11.
The CRB is a major threat to palm trees. While it primarily targets coconut palms, it can infest other palm species, often killing the tree by boring into the crown and damaging the growing point.
How do I obtain a compliance agreement?
To receive a compliance agreement, participants must complete a training session hosted by the Big Island Invasive Species Committee (BIISC). The DAB reports that the training takes approximately one hour and is coordinated directly by BIISC staff. Once the session is finished, BIISC staff will collect and submit the application to the DAB for final verification. Failure to complete this process can lead to significant penalties, including fines of up to $10,000.00.
What materials are restricted under Interim Rule 26-1?
The movement of specific organic materials is restricted to prevent the beetle from hitchhiking to new areas. According to the DAB, these regulated items include:
- Bare-root CRB host palms and live plants with organic material attached to roots, such as potted plants or sod.
- Decomposing plant material, including mulch, trimmings, wood or tree chips, stumps, and compost.
- Plant propagation media, even if commercially bagged.
- Landscaping materials and erosion-control socks containing organic matter.
If you are unsure if your materials are restricted, consult the official DAB maps of the West Hawaiʻi infestation zone before transporting any landscaping or plant-related cargo.
Are there exemptions to the movement rules?
Not all plant products are subject to the interim rule. The DAB clarifies that the following items are exempt:
- Food products: Coconuts, fruits, nuts, edible leaves, and spices.
- Preserved items: Lumber, wooden posts, carvings, firewood, and dried or painted coconuts.
- Decorative items: Cut flowers, foliage for lei or bouquets, and seeds for planting.
- Inert materials: Rock, coral, and sand that do not contain host material.
- Sterile plants: Tissue-cultured plants grown in sterile media.
Future trends in invasive species management
The implementation of Interim Rule 26-1 reflects a broader shift toward “human-assisted spread” mitigation. As invasive species like the CRB become more established, agricultural authorities are increasingly relying on compliance agreements to create a paper trail for high-risk materials.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for not having a compliance agreement?
Entities that fail to sign up and complete the required training may face penalties of up to $10,000.00, according to the DAB.
Where can I sign up for the training?
The training is provided by the Big Island Invasive Species Committee (BIISC). You can find information on how to schedule your session on the official BIISC website.
Who should I contact for specific questions about the rule?
For inquiries regarding Interim Rule 26-1, contact Ms. Techie Lancaster, DAB Plant Quarantine Branch Acting Plant Specialist, at 808-832-0566 or via email at [email protected].
Have you encountered signs of CRB in your area? Share your experiences in the comments below or subscribe to our agriculture newsletter for the latest updates on invasive species management in Hawaiʻi.
