Early Detection Program
KISC has created a highly effective early detection program that is continuously monitoring Kauai for invasion threats that have evaded port detection. KISC teams monitor high-risk sites island-wide and conduct early detection surveys for priority pest species to prevent their establishment and spread.
Pest Early Detection
Mamalu Poepoe
KISC is a participating partner of the Mamalu Poepoe program, a statewide multi-agency initiative to intercept high-risk invasive pests at our ports before they can invade our island. We monitor detection stations at the Lihue Airport and Nawiliwili Harbor for Africanized Honey Bees, Coconut Rhinoceros Beetles, and soon the Japanese Beetle.
LFA Early Detection
Island-wide Little Fire Ant (LFA) surveys at high-risk sites are completed annually to aid in the early detection before there is widespread LFA establishment across the island. Sites include green waste, nurseries, airports, harbors, and other high-risk sites across the island.
Monitoring for Naio Thrips
KISC crews survey cultivated naio populations island-wide for naio thrips. Monitoring in an effort to detect the introduction early before it spreads into pristine ecosystems and makes a lasting impact to native naio populations. As a partner in the Kauai Naio Thrips Early Detection and Rapid Response plan, we also reserve a 2 week response capacity to assist lead agencies if it is detected on Kauai.
Plant Early Detection Program
Early detection strategies, like road-side and nursery surveys, enable us to identify threats before they become widespread and out of control. KISC Plant Early Detection program systematically inventories, maps, and evaluates potential early plant invaders island-wide to prioritize new species for control.
Early Detection Educational Products
Find our Early Detection Field Guides and other ED educational products in our Resource Center.
