What We Do
KISC functions as an island-wide rapid response and control team that serves a gap filling role and helps coordinate multi-agency efforts to prevent the widespread establishment of high-risk invasive species on Kauai. We operate island-wide on both private and public land to detect new invasive species early and control target species before they make a lasting impact.
KISC teams monitor high-risk sites island-wide and conduct early detection surveys for priority pest species to prevent their establishment and spread.
KISC Plant Early Detection program systematically inventories, maps, and evaluates potential early plant invaders island-wide to prioritize new species for control.
KISC’s Rapid Response program strengthens multi-agency rapid response partnerships to build capacity on Kauai and leverage the limited resources available for invasive species prevention.
KISC’s continued, long-term, control efforts help prevent the spread of high-impact species into our watersheds and agricultural areas. We prioritize species that are recognized as having the greatest potential to impact native biodiversity and agriculture, and where the use of limited resources are most likely to be successful.
KISC partners with numerous conservation organizations to serve on the Kauaʻi Rapid ʻŌhiʻa Death Rapid Response team to help implement a variety of strategies to protect our native ʻōhiʻa forests and help reduce the spread of two fungal pathogens killing ʻōhiʻa across Kauaʻi.
KISC works closely with the community to raise awareness and enhance invasive species management support. We create and deliver educational programs tailored for Kauaʻi’s community, schools, and businesses to highlight their role to help preserve Kauaʻi’s native biodiversity and minimize adverse ecological, agricultural, economical, and cultural impacts.
We promote businesses that make pono commitments to reduce the spread and introduction of invasive species to our island.
KISC partners with HDOA to detect, contain, and eliminate LFA populations on Kauai to prevent widespread LFA establishment across the island.
