Hawaii Senate Bill SCR75

Hawaii 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/10/23
• Refer: 3/15/23

Caption

Requesting The Department Of Agriculture To Identify Existing Departmental Lands That Are Unsuitable For Agricultural Use But May Be Utilized As Pet Animal Sanctuaries.

Impact

The SCR75 resolution aims to tackle the ecological crisis posed by feral cats, which are responsible for a substantial percentage of bird and other wildlife extinction events. The resolution highlights the ineffectiveness of current mitigation strategies, such as Trap-Neuter-Return programs, which have failed to control feral cat populations. By establishing pet animal sanctuaries, the resolution hopes to provide a controlled environment for feral cats while simultaneously reducing their impact on native species and promoting community engagement in animal care.

Summary

Senate Concurrent Resolution 75 (SCR75) requests the Department of Agriculture of Hawaii to identify lands under its jurisdiction that are unsuitable for agricultural use and could potentially be used as pet animal sanctuaries. With Hawaii's unique ecology, the resolution seeks to address the pressing issue of invasive feral cat populations which pose significant threats to local wildlife. The resolution emphasizes the need for conservation efforts to protect over 400 endangered or threatened species that are particularly vulnerable to predation by feral cats.

Contention

While SCR75 appears beneficial for enhancing wildlife conservation efforts, it also raises questions regarding the management of feral cat populations and the practicality of creating sanctuaries. Some stakeholders may express concerns about the allocation of resources for identifying lands and creating sanctuaries, especially if agricultural lands are involved. The success of such initiatives depends largely on community involvement and the infrastructural capacity to manage and maintain these sanctuaries effectively, along with addressing the broader implications of invasive species management in Hawaii.