JAMM AQUINO / 2023
A dead coconut rhinoceros beetle is shown at Coastline Landscape and Nursery on Feb. 10, 2023, in Kunia.
Select an option below to continue reading this premium story.
Already a Honolulu Star-Advertiser subscriber? Log in now to continue reading.
The invasive coconut rhinoceros beetle problem is more critical than virtually any issue Hawaii has ever faced. The experts are saying the beetles are now beyond eradication and that we are in the “containment phase.” This is a gross understatement of the magnitude of this issue. Can you imagine Hawaii without any coconut trees? That is where we are headed. That is reality.
Hawaii needs to declare war on the beetles. Government cannot stop them alone, but it can enable the public. We need to educate and provide weapons to every property owner in Hawaii. Create, manufacture and distribute traps, poisons and topical treatments to every tree company, landscaper, golf course, park manager, school, business property and residence in Hawaii.
Containment is an illusion. Standing by and watching will result in the end of coconut palms in Hawaii.
Donald Frederickson
Kaneohe
EXPRESS YOURSELF
The Honolulu Star-Advertiser welcomes all opinions. Want your voice to be heard? Submit a letter to the editor.
>> Write us: We welcome letters up to 150 words, and guest columns of 500-600 words. We reserve the right to edit for clarity and length. Include your name, address and daytime phone number.
>> Mail: Letters to the Editor, Honolulu Star-Advertiser 7 Waterfront Plaza, 500 Ala Moana, Suite #7-500 Honolulu, HI 96813
>> Contact: 529-4831 (phone), letters@staradvertiser.com, staradvertiser.com/editorial/submit-letter