Response to Holland et al.; Biocontrol in Hawaii: More Bureaucracy is Not the Answer

Abstract

Biological control of invasive species in Hawaii is a controversial subject, but it is no longer viewed as an “agriculture vs. environment” issue. Rather, it is increasingly recognized as an essential tool for protecting beleaguered natural ecosystems. Public scrutiny, risk analysis, and caution in the conduct of classical biological control are important elements of a technology that has great potential for environmental and economic benefits in the state of Hawaii. For these benefits to be realized, however, agricultural and conservation interests alike should encourage our state government to adopt policies and regulations that are efficient as well as transparent. Invasive pest species in the islands are occurring at an increasing rate; threatening crops, native plants and animals, and entire ecosystems. It is essential that we retain the ability to control these pests in a timely and a safe manner. Regulations should facilitate, rather than obfuscate, these goals.