HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 1041.004 1996-1998
OPERATION MICONIA
BIG ISLAND MELASTOME ACTION COMITTEF
DEPT. OF AGRICULTURE BUILDING
16 E. LANIKAULA ST.
HILO, HI 96720
Council Chairman James Arakaki and
Members of the Hawaii County Council
County of Hawaii
25 Aupuni St.
Hilo, HI 96720
November 19, 1998
Aloha Mr. Arakaki,
'T'hank you for your supportive statements about Hawaii's Miconia eradication project at previous
Council briefings. Much good work has been done since the inception of Operation Miconia, but
the pressure must be kept up on this alien tree invasion.
The Big Island MelastomeAction Committee would like to extend an invitation to the whole
Council to participate in an Onomea site visit and hands-on work effort. This will give the Council
first hand experience and familiarity with the threat posed to the environmental and economic health
of the island. Onomea, the initial site of this island's miconia infestation, now has miconia tree
densities exceeding 1,500 plants per acre.
"The work effort portion of the visit will allow participants to strike a blow against this invasion.
Weather permitting, we would instruct members on current eradication methods using herbicides
and then treat a selected area. Loose, comfortable work clothes and shoes that can be washed free
of mud should be worn. Be sure to bring insect repellent.
At a minimum, this effort would take two hours and if time permitted we could expand it to four
hours by covering a larger area. The week of January 1 I to 15 would be the soonest we could
schedule it or we could schedule it in the third week, at your convenience.
Please let us know at Ph. 974-4140 (f acsi mile: 9744148).
Mahalo for all your support,
Nelson Ho
BIMAC Miconia Control Field Team Leader
No FND 1 2c=