HI SCR38

Department of Agriculture requested to convene a task force to document economic, environmental, and regulatory consequences of crop degradation caused by invasive and endangered species in Hawaii.

Task force membership includes representatives from state agencies (Agriculture, Land and Natural Resources, Health), federal USDA agencies, University of Hawaii, all county planning and economic development offices, Hawaii Invasive Species Council, and Hawaii Farm Bureau Federation, with Board of Agriculture Chairperson serving as chair.

Task force directed to conduct population assessments of invasive and endangered species including their population sizes, geographical ranges, impacts on agricultural and non-agricultural lands, feeding and roosting patterns, and population trends.

Task force required to develop best management practices for controlling, eradicating, or relocating invasive and endangered species, including farm protection protocols and public education strategies.

Task force must submit findings, recommendations, and any proposed legislation to the Legislature no later than twenty days before the 2017 Regular Session convening.