The bill emphasizes the need for sustained research and management strategies to tackle ROD effectively. It allocates authorization for appropriations of $5 million annually from fiscal years 2024 through 2034, aimed at supporting various activities related to the control and prevention of ROD. This financial support is intended for initiatives carried out by the involved federal agencies to enhance ecological research, prevention measures, and restoration efforts in Hawaii's native forests.
Summary
SB927, known as the Continued Rapid Ohia Death Response Act of 2023, aims to address the critical issue of Rapid Ohia Death (ROD), a devastating fungal disease that has led to the death of over a million native Ohia trees in Hawaii. This bill mandates a partnership between the Secretary of the Interior, the Secretary of Agriculture, and the State of Hawaii to combat the spread of ROD and restore affected forests. The act calls for collaborative efforts to identify resistant Ohia trees and manage the factors contributing to the disease's spread.
Conclusion
Overall, SB927 represents a significant step towards mitigating the effects of Rapid Ohia Death through committed research and collaborative governance. By fostering partnerships and providing financial backing for restoration efforts, the bill aims to ensure the future resilience of Hawaii's unique ecosystems. The successful implementation of this act will require ongoing cooperation between government entities and local stakeholders to navigate the challenges inherent in managing ecological crises.
Contention
While the bill appears largely focused on ecological preservation and forest health, discussions surrounding its implementation may involve debates over funding allocation, effectiveness of federal versus state management strategies, and potential impacts on local economies that rely on forest resources. Moreover, legislation like SB927 often raises questions about the prioritization of environmental health against other competitive interests within Hawaiian communities, particularly as they relate to land use and development.
Continued Rapid Ohia Death Response Act of 2025This bill establishes requirements to research and control the fungus Ceratocystis, known as Rapid Ohia Death, which has killed more than a million native trees in Hawaii.Specifically, the Department of the Interior must partner with the Department of Agriculture and Hawaii to control and address the fungus.In addition, the U.S. Geological Survey must continue to research Rapid Ohia Death vectors and transmission.The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service must continue to partner with Hawaii and local stakeholders to manage ungulates (e.g., certain mammals such as deer) in Rapid Ohia Death control areas on federal, state, and private land.Finally, the Forest Service must continue to provide (1) financial assistance to prevent the spread of the fungus and to restore the native forests of Hawaii, and (2) staff and necessary infrastructure funding to the Institute of Pacific Islands Forestry to research the fungus.
Continued Rapid Ohia Death Response Act of 2025This bill establishes requirements to research and control Rapid Ohia Death, which is the disease caused by the fungal pathogen known as Ceratocystis fimbriata that affects the tree of the species Metrosideros polymorpha.Specifically, the Department of the Interior must partner with the Department of Agriculture (USDA) and Hawaii to control and address Rapid Ohia Death.In addition, the U.S. Geological Survey and the Forest Service Institute of Pacific Islands Forestry must continue to research Rapid Ohia Death vectors and transmission.The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service must continue to partner with USDA, Hawaii, and local stakeholders to manage ungulates (e.g., certain mammals such as deer) in Rapid Ohia Death control areas on federal, state, and private land, with the consent of private landowners.Finally, the Forest Service must provide (1) financial assistance to prevent the spread of the fungus and to restore the native forests of Hawaii, and (2) staff and necessary infrastructure funding to the Institute of Pacific Islands Forestry to research the fungus.
Reforms the organizational structure for the Department of Transportation and Development including its duties, powers, and responsibilities of officers and employees (EN INCREASE SD EX See Note)