The 2011 ASHS Annual Conference

Objective(s):
The Hawaiian Islands represent isolated and biodiverse ecosystems that include tropical dry forests, subalpine grasslands, alpine deserts, among many others. The diversity in environments within its small geographical area has allowed for a robust horticultural industry that includes fruits, nuts, vegetables, and ornamentals. This diversity and geography, however, has also led to a vulnerability to a wide array of invasive flora and fauna. The impact of invasive species like mangrove and coffee berry borer are altering the coastline and affecting coffee yields, respectively. This workshop will be a tour of selected natural and horticultural production sites that are dealing with the impact of invasive species, their control, and restoration. The invasive plant working group annual business meeting will be held during bus transportation to the sites. Tour 12:00–6:30 pm: PuuWaaWaa dry forest site, Kailua, HI: See conservation projects and discuss invasive species with site manager. Holualoa Kona Coffee Company - Kona Le`a Plantation: Tour coffee plantation and have discussion of the coffee berry borer, Hypothenemus hampei. Palamanui dry forest restoration (and invasive species removal) site, Makolei Estates, Kona, HI: See the project and talk with staff Alula Bay (Located south of Honokohau Harbor), Alula Beach, Kailua, HI: See a mangrove removal and coastline restoration project.