Honolulu – Invasive species have a devastating effect on the state’s agriculture, food self-sufficiency, freshwater quality and quantity, human health, and on the health of native species and ecosystems. February 1st marks the start of Hawaiʻi Invasive Species Awareness Month (HISAM).
HISAM is an event designed to raise awareness of these impacts while also recognizing the work being done to protect against them. HISAM is hosted by the Department of Agriculture (DOA) and the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR), with both agencies serving as co-leads of the Hawaiʻi Invasive Species Council (HISC).
Due to the ongoing pandemic, HISAM will continue to offer virtual opportunities, with most events being livestreamed or shared via social media. On February 1st, the month will kick-off with an opening ceremony hosted by Hālau ʻŌhiʻa on Facebook Live. Educational webinars are also scheduled throughout the month and will explore the work and species in the different landscapes. Each week features talks starting in the upper reaches of the mountains in the “wao akua” and ending in the ocean at the “wao kahakai”. The HISC support program will also be announcing awards to recognize individuals, projects, or businesses whose efforts have helped reduce invasive species impacts in their communities. Videos announcing these awards will be featured on social media as well as special live streaming events. Social media content will be searchable by the hashtag #HISAM22.
“Invasive species are often insidious and may go undetected for substantial periods of time,” said Phyllis Shimabukuro-Geiser, chairperson of the Hawai`i Board of Agriculture. “Once established, invasive species are extremely difficult or even impossible to eradicate. To protect Hawai`i’s agriculture and unique environment, we urge everyone to become more aware and be on the lookout for invasive plants, pests and animals and to help stop the invasions.”
