The Kaua‘i Watershed Alliance Projects Alaka‘i Weed Control |
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| Over seventy hours of systematic helicopter based weed mapping conducted by The Nature Conservancy (TNC) partnering with the Koke‘e Resource Conservation Program (KRCP); the Kaua‘i Invasive Species Committee (KISC); & the Division of Forestry & Wildlife (DOFAW). Between May 2003 and May 2006, and numerous ground surveys, have revealed Kahili ginger, Australian tree fern, and Strawberry guava to be the most urgent weed threats to the eastern Alaka‘i. Key satellite populations of Kahili ginger have been mapped and are to be eliminated using a combination of mechanical and herbicidal means. The plan is to contain the approaching front of Kahili ginger, spreading outwards from Koke‘e state park, from establishing within the core summit area of the Alaka‘i by maintaining a two mile buffer and a line of defense. Strawberry guava was easy to map from the air where it occurs in large dense patches, but harder to detect in more sparse populations. Strawberry guava and other weeds are to be targeted whenever found. Australian tree fern (ATF) was also mapped during the aerial surveys. ATF spreads by spores via the wind and consequently, single lone individuals are scattered throughout the Alaka‘i in remote, rugged, and often inaccessible terrain. It is hoped that helicopter based spot herbicide applications will allow for more efficiency in combating this threat. KRCP, TNC, and DOFAW are partnering to combat Kahili ginger in the Alaka‘i, however, success relies heavily on volunteer participation. Learn how to volunteer today! |
| The map above (click on map to enlarge) shows the outlying populations of Kahili ginger in the East Alaka‘i around Koai‘e Canyon, and the line of defense which will create a buffer zone between the more heavily infested area and the East Alaka‘i. |
| A helicopter can travel from plant to plant much faster and more efficiently than anyone could on foot and can apply herbicides directly to the growing top which otherwise could be out of reach for ground crews. |
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| (Last Updated on February 4th, 2008) BACK |
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| The orange lines in the map above are the GPS tracks from helisurveys conducted from 2003 - 2006. These surveys have produced data very valuable to developing weed control objectives and management strategies. |
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