The bill directs the appropriation of funds totaling $1,700,000 to the Department of Land and Natural Resources for various initiatives aimed at combating rapid ohia death. These funds will be utilized for surveying and responding to the disease, conducting applied research on management tools, removing hooved animals from areas with fences on Hawaii Island to prevent further spread of the disease, and public outreach initiatives aimed at disease prevention. By implementing these measures, SB2765 aims to mitigate the impact of rapid ohia death on Hawaii's forests and preserve this vital component of the state's natural and cultural heritage.
Summary
SB2765 is an act focused on addressing the widespread issue of rapid ohia death, a disease that has decimated over a million ohia trees on Hawaii Island and poses a significant threat to forests across all main Hawaiian islands. Ohia trees are crucial to Hawaii's ecosystem, constituting eighty percent of the remaining native forests and serving as habitats for a diversity of plant and animal life. The bill emphasizes the cultural importance of ohia trees to native Hawaiians, who have revered them for their practical uses and spiritual significance. The destruction of these trees could lead to severe ecological consequences, including diminished water supplies and a loss of cultural connections.
Contention
While the bill proposes significant funding and actions to address rapid ohia death, it may face challenges regarding the efficacy and allocation of the funds. The necessity of research and potential methods for managing the disease have been topics of discussion among local stakeholders. There may be concerns about the management practices involving the removal of animals and the impact on local ecosystems. Furthermore, the cultural sensitivity surrounding the ohia and its significance in Hawaiian culture may ignite discussions on how best to approach the conservation efforts in a manner that honors both ecological integrity and cultural values.
Relating to making supplemental appropriations and reductions in appropriations and giving direction and adjustment authority regarding appropriations.
Authorizes the Dept. of State to temporarily close certain public facilities and museums when funds are not appropriated or otherwise made available from other sources for the operation. (gov sig)
Relating to making supplemental appropriations and reductions in appropriations and giving direction, including direction regarding reimbursement, and adjustment authority regarding appropriations.