HI HCR62

Urges the Department of Transportation to identify and implement alternative vegetation management methods along the 64-mile Hana Highway that would eliminate or significantly reduce synthetic chemical herbicide use while maintaining roadway safety.

Requests the Department hold public meetings in East Maui to review current vegetation management practices, examine alternatives including organic and eco-friendly herbicides, and develop solutions in consultation with community stakeholders.

Raises concerns that herbicides currently used by the Department (such as Garlon and Finale XL) may pose risks to human health and aquatic ecosystems along the highway corridor, which traverses coastal watersheds, streams, and nearshore marine environments.

Notes that East Maui contains significant traditional agricultural systems, including loi kalo (taro) cultivation relying on clean stream water, and that chemical vegetation management may impact these culturally significant resources.

Requests the Department explore community-based stewardship and monitoring efforts and consider whether this engagement process could serve as a model for vegetation management planning along other state highways.