New video highlights ongoing impact of Rapid ‘Ōhi’a Death
A new video produced by the University of Hawaii at Manoa titled “Protecting Hawaii’s Native Forests” sheds light on the ongoing devastation caused by Rapid ʻŌhiʻa Death (ROD), illustrating the impact on the once-thriving native ʻōhiʻa forest. The video serves as an educational tool, showcasing the collaborative efforts of various community members, including forest managers, biologists, hunters, and Hawaiian cultural practitioners from Hawaii Island, who are all actively engaged in raising awareness about the urgent situation at hand.
In the video, participants share their personal connections to the forest, highlighting the significance of mutual respect and partnership in effective conservation strategies. Native ʻōhiʻa trees are a vital component of Hawaii’s native forests, accounting for approximately 80% of the state’s ecosystems. These trees play a crucial role in safeguarding watersheds, replenishing aquifers, and preventing soil erosion and flooding, underscoring the importance of preserving them.
ROD is primarily caused by fungi, namely Ceratocystis lukuohia and C. huliohia, which enter trees through wounds inflicted by non-native feral animals like wild cattle and pigs. These animals cause damage by stripping bark, digging up roots, or gashing trees with their tusks. While windstorms can also contribute to tree injuries, the impact of feral ungulates can be managed through proper fencing and exclusion measures.
J.B. Friday, an extension forester at the Cooperative Extension program of UH Manoa’s College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resilience, emphasizes the importance of fencing to protect native forests, stating that this approach is a game-changer in combating ROD. The Mauna Kea Watershed Alliance Manager, Cheyenne Perry, expresses a deep personal connection to Hawaii’s native forests, underscoring the intrinsic link between the health of the forest and resilience against ROD.
The video makes it clear that fencing efforts are aimed at safeguarding the forest without impeding community or hunter access. State forests, which are open to hunting, have designated access points with gates and stiles to facilitate public use. In contrast, hunting is generally prohibited in national parks and wildlife refuges, regardless of fencing. The Hauoli Mau Loa Foundation, through the Coordinating Group on Invasive Pest Species, provided funding for the production of the video.
In conclusion, the ongoing devastation caused by ROD serves as a stark reminder of the importance of preserving Hawaii’s native forests. Through collaborative efforts, education, and active conservation measures, stakeholders are working together to protect the invaluable ecosystems that are deeply intertwined with the cultural identity and sustainability of Hawaii.