Unfortunately, there are many invasive species that have become so widespread and common place, that island-wide eradication is unfeasible. This is either due to lack of resources, unavailable technology and/or research, or simply too well established that managing on a landscape scale is impossible. However, there are resources available to private citizens to manage invasive species on their own properties.
CTAHR Weeds of Hawaii. This list provides control recommendations for common invasive plants: https://www.ctahr.hawaii.edu/invweed/weedsHi.html
Albizia (Falcataria mollucana): Albizia trees are widely established on Oʻahu. They can become problematic and hazard tree if not controlled early. Large, mature trees can drop huge, heavy branches on roads and homes. In Hawaiʻi, these are the fastest growing tree in the world…growing 10 feet each year. Controlling them in the early years is easy and cheap, but waiting until they reach full growth potential means expensive removal costing thousands of dollars. The Koʻolau Mountains Watershed Partnership (KMWP) prepared materials to help landowners control these trees. For more information on albizia projects on Oʻahu, visit KMWP website!
You can report any suspect pests at anytime. Each island has different pests at different stages of invasion. You donʻt have to know which pests are on which island, just report anything you find suspect. If it is an actionable pest, your report will be sent to the appropriate responding agency. You can contact OISC (email: oisc@hawaii.edu) or report to www.643pest.org
