By TOM CALLIS
By TOM CALLIS
Tribune-Herald staff writer
Big Island nurseries could soon receive a seal of approval from groups trying to control the spread of invasive species.
As part of a pilot program, the Big Island Invasive Species Committee will provide “plant pono” certifications to nurseries that follow certain procedures to prevent the importation of unwanted plants and pests.
The effort is being funded by a $114,000 U.S. Forest Service grant to be issued this summer as well as funding from the Hawaii Invasive Species Council.
The first certifications, which BISC is calling endorsements, will likely be issued in early 2014, said Springer Kaye, committee manger.
The voluntary program may be expanded statewide. It’s only being implemented currently in Hawaii County.
“The Big Island is the center of Hawaii’s agriculture and horticulture trades,” Kaye said. “And demonstrating this gives the nursery trades a chance to highlight their interest in being responsible business owners.”
Criteria is still being developed, but participating nurseries will be expected to demonstrate best management practices for controlling pests as well as avoiding importation of certain plants.
One of the pests the committee is worried about is the “semi-slug,” which can spread rat lung worm disease, Kaye said.
Judy Schilling, administrative assistant for the Big Island Association of Nurserymen, said nursery owners are supportive of the program.
She expects many to participate.
“This program is really vital to our industry and to our state,” Schilling said, adding that invasive species can “wipe out a whole industry.”
The certifications can also add value to a nursery’s products, she said, providing growers with a bit of financial incentive to get involved.
“Because the customer knows they are buying from a certified nursery, they don’t have to worry about it,” Schilling said. “It’s just that much better.”
The grant will fund two botanists who will carry out surveys of nurseries interested in the program.
The funding is intended to last for 18 months.
Kaye said there is a “high chance” it will be continued for three years.
Email Tom Callis at tcallis@hawaiitribune-herald.com.