30 Aug Alert: More Rapid ‘Ōhi’a Death Detections
Alert: More Rapid ‘Ōhi’a Death Detections
Unfortunately, I am writing to report that the more aggressive species leading to Rapid ‘Ōhi‘a Death has been detected in six more trees in two new locations on Kaua’i—five near the Kalāheo-Lāwai section of the Līhu‘e-Kōloa Forest Reserve and one in the Wailua section of the Līhu‘e-Kōloa Forest Reserve. A total of 22 trees in three separate locations across Kaua‘i have now tested positive for Ceratocystis lukuohia, the more virulent species of the fungi that causes ROD.
The infected ‘ōhi‘a in upper Wailua is located along the Powerline Trail, a readily accessible trail. As such, we are asking for people’s help in containing the disease by following basic bio-sanitation protocols—brushing boots, gear, and vehicles free of mud and, when, possible spraying with isopropyl rubbing alcohol. To help, boot brush stations have recently been installed at most Na Ala Hele trailheads. This bio-sanitation video provides a demonstration of these simple decontamination practices.
Also, KISC and DOFAW have scheduled an on-the-ground sampling effort for the second week of September with a crew of 12 to 15 trained technicians to sample more suspect trees. Six experts from the Big Island Invasive Species Committee and one from Hawai‘i Island DOFAW will join us. –
Kim S. Rogers | Kaua’i ROD Outreach Specialist
Kauai Invasive Species Committee
7370 Kuamo’o Rd, #K Kapa’a, HI 96746
Cell: 808-634-1303 | Office: 808-821-1490