Hawaii Department of Agriculture

The committee reviewed and discussed a petition for interim rule-making intended to restrict the movement of Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle (CRB) host material to Maui and Lanai. Key discussion topics included the ecological and economic emergency risk posed by potential CRB infestation, the practical challenges of enforcing secondary inspections in areas with limited staff, and the need for clear regulatory language. Stakeholders provided testimony in support of the petition, emphasizing that existing measures were insufficient. The committee also considered potential adjustments for exemptions regarding specialized plant programs to balance biosecurity needs with ongoing operational requirements.

The public hearing focused on proposed amendments to Hawaii Administrative Rules regarding pesticide regulations to align with state certification plans and federal standards. Key discussion points included replacing specific language in the certification plan to clarify mandatory requirements for pesticide applicators, and increasing maximum civil and criminal penalties to comply with state legislation. Public testimony was received, covering themes such as requests for greater transparency in pesticide usage, improved communication for consumers regarding products grown with pesticides, the necessity of increased public health protections, and concerns regarding the lack of specific definitions for pesticides and natural alternatives.

The board discussed several key agricultural and biosecurity matters. Key agenda items included the approval of an emergency loan for Pacific Produce Incorporated, also known as Quality Greens, to cover infrastructure and crop losses from a recent storm event. The board also addressed the certification of acreage assessments for various irrigation systems for the 2027 fiscal year and approved a scheduled incremental increase to the water delivery charge for all irrigation users to move the program toward financial self-sufficiency.

The board reviewed a report regarding compliance training for an interim rule within a CRB-affected zone. Key discussion topics included the status of training efforts, promotional strategies for compliance, identification of breeding sites in local nurseries, challenges involving non-compliance by major retailers, and requests for clarification on state agency inspection processes and mapping boundaries for rule enforcement.

The committee meeting agenda includes a request for the importation and possession of twenty-seven Plains Bison by Aloha Bison, LLC for breeding and commercial meat production. Additionally, the request covers the update of permit conditions associated with the importation and possession of these restricted animals.