REP AWESC 003 2016/05/03 (2014-2016)

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REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON AGRICULTURE, WATER AND ENERGY SUSTAINABILITY DATE:May 3, 2016 Re: Comm. No. 850/Res. No. 516-16 PLACE: Council Chambers Kailua-Kona, Hawai`i TIME: 10:40 a.m. Council Chair and Members Hawai`i County Council Hilo, Hawai`i 96720 Your Committee on Agriculture, Water and Energy Sustainability, to which was referred Resolution 516-16, reports as follows: Resolution 516-16, transmitted by Council Member Greggor Ilagan, dated April 1, 2016, urges the adminstration of the County of Hawai`i to take appropiate steps to prevent the spread of Rapid `Ohi`a Death. Resolution 516-16 was first heard at the Agriculture, Water and Energy Sustainability Committee on April 19, 2016. Dr. J. B. Friday from the University of Hawaii College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources Cooperative Extension Service and Dr. Flint Hughes from the United States Department of Agriculture Forest Service Institute of Pacific Islands Forestry were present to explain the disease and the current status of it on Hawaii Island. They explained it is a new strain of the fungus Ceratocystis fimbriata and that it is spreading rapidly across the island. They explained that it is spread by contaminated sawdust being spread by humans, beetles and the wind, as well as from tree to tree contact. To help contain the sawdust, they recommend cutting down infected trees with a tarp on the ground to catch the sawdust and treating them using a sanitary method, such as covering, burning or moving in an enclosed vehicle to a proper disposal site. They also said that vehicles, tools, and boots need to be sanitized to stop the spreading of it. They emphasized the need for public education. They stated that some areas, such as Puna, are heavily infected but there are still lots of healthy forests which can be effectively protected. Public testifier Mr. Shane Nelson stated that it is important to include Hawaiian traditional practices and knowledge in solving the problem as well as scientific knowledge. Council Members asked about the possible use for firewood (yes if stored in secure place), community outreach programs for education (currently ongoing), and funding sources (Federal, State and County). Resolution 516-16 was postponed to the May 3, 2016 Agriculture, Water and Energy Sustainability Committee meeting. At the May 3, 2016 Agriculture, Water and Energy Sustainability Committee meeting, Council Member Ilagan moved to amend Resolution 516-16 with the contents of Communication 850.1, AWESC Report No.: 3