Technology Used in the Fight Against Invasive Species Across the State
DAB biosecurity officers administer LFA pesticide in the field while mapping out the location of the treatment. Photo courtesy: DAB.
The Hawaiʻi Department of Agriculture and Biosecurity (DAB) is using state-of-the-art mapping technology to help residents across the state keep tabs on the fight against invasive species like little fire ants (LFA), coconut rhinoceros beetles (CRB) and coqui frogs.
Act 250 was signed into law by Governor Green in June of last year. It appropriated $26.6 million for DAB and 44 new positions and biosecurity efforts.
One of the first things put in place was a new online dashboard, allowing people to find information such as the locations of little fire ant infestations across the state. “This record level of funding reflects our commitment to safeguarding our environment and ensuring the sustainability of our agriculture industry for future generations while also ensuring the responsible use of state funds,” Governor Green said at the bill signing.
The technology and staffing generated major results in the fight against the little pests. For example, the total number of LFA samples collected in fiscal year 2025 was 43,522. That number grew to 76,583 in fiscal year 2026, an increase of nearly 57%.
There is also a section dedicated to avian influenza, with a map graphic showing the number of tests conducted in the four counties in fiscal year 2026.
The dashboard also has a page where people can find out what types of pesticides DAB uses in the fight against the big three, with an overview, pros and cons.
“The fight against invasive species can be manpower intensive. Documenting all that work and sharing it with the public is a top priority for DAB,” said Deputy Director Dean Matsukawa. The invasive species dashboard can be found at biosecurity.hawaii.gov/.
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