The state of hawaii department of land and natural resources (dlnr), division of aquatic resources(DAR) is requesting support for continuing the implementation of hawaii aquatic invasive…

The state of hawaii department of land and natural resources (dlnr), division of aquatic resources(DAR) is requesting support for continuing the implementation of hawaii aquatic invasive species(AIS) management plan through funding opportunity F24AS00256-02. A successful aquatic invasive species program is composed of three key initiatives: prevention of AIS arrival, monitoring of known species and for new species, and control or rapid response efforts. Two supporting elements accompany these key initiatives: scientific research or data collection and outreach education. Though the most cost-effective management strategy in the state of hawaii is prevention of new species arrival coupled with early detection and monitoring efforts, investing in the control of established alien and invasive species can be valuable in preventing permanent deleterious effects to hawaii s aquatic ecosystems, local economy, and environmental health. This project aims to address all three main components of the aquatic invasive species program including prevention, monitoring, and control. The division of aquatic resources plans to complete work in line with the objectives outlined in the hawaii AIS management plan, https: dlnr.hawaii.GOV DAR files 2014 04 AIS mgmt plan final.PDF . One of the main priorities for this funding period is to continue assessing ballast and hull fouling pathways and data as part of ongoing monitoring effort. Funding supporting this staff time will also continue to work with partners and facilitate coordination meetings, enforce regulations, increase outreach related to hawaiis aquatic biosecurity. Funding from this opportunity will also be used to support the state of hawaii AIS program and their participation in prevention, early detection and rapid response, monitoring and control activities. Additional budgeted items are operation supplies, travel, and training that will support the state of hawaii AIS programs operations.