Report Title:

Fireweed eradication

 

Description:

Appropriates funds for short-term control methods to stop the spread of fireweed. (HB211 HD1)

 

HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

H.B. NO.

211

TWENTY-FIRST LEGISLATURE, 2001

H.D. 1

STATE OF HAWAII

 


 

A BILL FOR AN ACT

 

relating to fireweed.

 

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF HAWAII:

SECTION 1. Senecio Madagascariensis, more commonly known as "fireweed," is an extremely poisonous weed. It invades overgrazed and drought ridden pastures and is often found along roadsides. Fireweed is toxic to cattle, horses, and other livestock, because when ingested, fireweed causes damage to the liver and neurological system and eventually leads to death. Symptoms may occur weeks or months after grazing. Fireweed is also a threat to native Hawaiian plants.

The legislature finds that fireweed is spreading rapidly throughout the islands of Hawaii, Maui, and Kauai. Although ranchers are trying to control the spread of fireweed on their own property, they are unable to eradicate the spread of fireweed in other locations. The legislature believes that a short-term solution is needed to eradicate the spread of fireweed in Hawaii.

The purpose of this Act is to provide the necessary funds for the implementation of short-term control methods to stop the spread of fireweed.

SECTION 2. There is appropriated out of the general revenues of the State of Hawaii the sum of $1 or so much thereof as may be necessary for fiscal year 2001-2002 and the sum of $1 or so much thereof as may be necessary for fiscal year 2002-2003 for the implementation of short-term control methods to stop the spread of fireweed.

The sums appropriated shall be expended by the department of agriculture for purposes of this Act.

SECTION 3. This Act shall take effect on July 1, 2001.