Aquatic Invasive Species
Local Action Strategies
Aquatic invasive species (AIS) include species in marine and inland waters whose introductions cause or are likely to cause economic or environmental harm, and/or harm to human health. AIS are a serious problem in Hawaii, posing a significant threat to residents and visitors, as well as to Hawaii's native plants, animals, and associated native ecosystems.
Aquatic Invasive Species
The purpose of this State of Hawaii Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Management Plan is to act as a tool in which to help enhance the coordination of current management efforts, identify remaining problem areas and gaps, and recommend additional actions which are needed to effectively address AIS issues in Hawaii. The focus of this plan is the identification of feasible, cost-effective management practices to be implemented by State, Federal, county, nongovernmental, private, and volunteer entitites for the environmentally sound prevention and control of aquatic invasive species in a coordinated fashion.
Goal
To minimize the harmful ecological, economic, and human health impacts of AIS through the prevention and management of their introduction, expansion, and dispersal into, within, and from Hawai‘i.
Objectives
- Coordination and collaboration: To improve the coordination and collaboration of people, resources, and efforts involved with AIS.
- Prevention: To minimize the introduction and spread of AIS into and throughout the waters of Hawai‘i.
- Monitoring and early detection: To ensure effective programs that allow for the early detection of new AIS and the monitoring of existing AIS.
- Response, eradication, and control: To establish effective systems for rapid response, eradication, control, and restoration.
- Education and outreach: To increase education and outreach efforts to ensure awareness throughout the State on AIS threats and solutions.
- Research: To increase research efforts on key AIS species, associated issues, and economic impacts to allow for more effective management.
- Policy: To ensure State laws and regulations effectively promote the prevention and control of AIS.
