October 10, 2023
Wahiawā, HI – Senator Donovan M. Dela Cruz (District 17, Portion of Mililani, Mililani Mauka, portion of Waipi‘o Acres, Launani Valley, Wahiawā, Whitmore Village) announced that the Hawaiʻi Department of Agriculture (HDOA) and Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) inspected and installed traps today to begin the containment of coconut rhinoceros beetles (CRB) in Wahiawā. The CRB was detected on Royal Palm Drive, which is home to historic palms beloved by the community and recognized in the City and County of Honolulu's Exceptional Tree Program.
“The initial response from the HDOA Director lacked the urgency that I felt was necessary to save the historic palms," said Senator Dela Cruz. "I want to say Mahalo to HDOA Deputy Director Dexter Kishida and DLNR Deputy Director Laura Kaakua for their immediate attention on this matter and assisting with the eradication outreach today."
HDOA plans to spray trees in the area in the coming weeks to treat the infected areas.
Officials recommend green waste inspection and management as the most effective ways to stave off CRB outbreaks. Green waste management includes removal of compost, soil, dead trees, and plant waste from homes, businesses and public common areas that have potential breeding material.
Adult CRB are active during late afternoon and evening hours. Residents who observe CRB are asked to immediately file a report with the CRB Response Team at (808) 679-5244 or email info@crbhawaii.org or call the state’s toll-free Pest Hotline at (808) 643-PEST (7378). Reports should include your name, location, and time the CRB was observed.
If you find beetles or larvae, place them into a sealed container or plastic bag and store them in a freezer. Wear protective materials when handling CRB such as gardening gloves, cloth, or paper towels.
For more information, go to the CRB Response webpage: www.crbhawaii.org.
Photos and b-roll from the installation of the traps can be accessed here: CBR Media.