Requesting The Department Of Agriculture To Convene A Feral Game Mammal Working Group To Find, Solicit, And Distribute Grants For The Control Of Feral Game Mammals.
The resolution aims to facilitate the identification and distribution of grants to support feral game mammal control initiatives. By establishing a working group that includes representatives from both the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Land and Natural Resources, as well as community members affected by these issues, SR41 seeks a cooperative approach to mitigate the ecological damages caused by these invasive species. This represents a significant step toward preserving Hawaii's unique biodiversity and ecosystem health.
Senate Resolution 41 (SR41) requests that the Department of Agriculture convene a working group focused on the control of feral game mammals in Hawaii. Feral ungulates, particularly goats, pigs, and Axis deer, are identified as significant threats to the integrity of native ecosystems, endangering native flora and fauna. The resolution highlights issues such as soil erosion, the destruction of plant ground cover, and potential disease transmission to both native birds and humans, citing the Palila as an endangered Hawaiian honeycreeper that suffers from these environmental impacts.
While SR41 has garnered support from various stakeholders interested in environmental conservation, there may be contention surrounding the implementation of control measures. Concerns could arise regarding the methods used to manage feral game mammals, particularly in how they impact local agricultural practices and wildlife. The resolution does not provide specific strategies for control, leaving room for debate among advocates for animal rights versus those prioritizing ecosystem preservation.