Learn more about how invasive species impact Hawai‘i’s ecosystem

The state aims to raise awareness of the threats facing native plants through Hawai‘i Invasive Species Awareness Month.

Throughout May, the interagency Hawaiʻi Invasive Species Council, co-chaired by the Department of Land and Natural Resources and the Hawaiʻi Department of Agriculture, is hosting volunteer opportunities and a series of free webinars led by local invasive species experts. Webinar topics will include the creation of new habitats for critically endangered bird species, controlling coqui frogs on Maui, and community engagement within invasive species management.

“Every person has a role in Hawaiʻi’s biosecurity network. This month highlights the actions — large and small — that protect our islands from invasive pests,” said Sharon Hurd, chair of the Hawai‘i Department of Agriculture.

This year’s theme, “What’s at Risk — from Mauka to Makai,” reflects the breadth of Hawai‘i’s resources and landscapes, from native forests to nearshore reefs. Local community events across the state invite people to connect with nature and take action to help control invasives. Participants can survey for invasive plants on Oʻahu’s North Shore, remove weeds from remote forests on Maui, restore critical bird habitat on Hawaiʻi Island and more.

Awards will also be given to community members for their efforts to address what the Hawaiʻi State Legislature has described as the single greatest threat to Hawaiʻi’s economy, natural environment, people and visitors.

“Invasive species threaten everything we hold dear — from our wai to our ‘āina,” said Department of Land and Natural Resources Chair Dawn Chang. “Hawai‘i Invasive Species Awareness Month reminds us that stewardship is everyone’s kuleana, mauka to makai.”

Visit the Hawaiʻi Invasive Species Council website for a full schedule of events with links to webinars at https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/hisc/hisam2025/.