HI HB2596

Appropriates general revenue funds for fiscal year 2016-2017 to the Department of Agriculture, in cooperation with the University of Hawaii College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources, to research and develop prevention and treatment methods for macadamia felted coccid infestations.

Macadamia felted coccid (Eriococcus ironsidei), originally from Australia, was discovered on macadamia nut trees in South Kona in March 2005 and has recently reappeared in the Pahala area; insecticidal oil treatments that were previously effective have proven ineffective on larger, mature trees.

Research priorities include investigating tree canopy modification, analyzing alternative pesticides, determining impact on plant health, establishing action thresholds, studying phenology, and identifying and testing biological control agents from Australia.

Appropriates funds for one full-time extension agent (1.0 FTE) position at the University of Hawaii to work on macadamia nut cultivation, post-harvest handling, and processing concerns aligned with Hawaii Macadamia Nut Association research priorities.

Appropriated funds shall not lapse at the end of the fiscal biennium, with any unencumbered moneys lapsing on June 30, 2021; Act takes effect July 1, 2016.