Gardner, D. E., and C. J. Davis. 1982. The prospects for biological control of nonnative plants in Hawaiian national parks. Cooperative Park Studies Unit (Dept. Botany)/Univ. Hawaii. Technical Report 45:58
ABSTRACT
National Park Service (NPS) policy emphasizes the preservation of processes through which native ecosystems arose, as well as the unique features of such ecosystems. Encroachment of exotic (nonnative) plants into natural NPS areas is inconsistent with this policy. Previous attempts to control such plants in Hawaiian NPS areas have involved mechanical removal or treatment with herbicides, but these methods as presently employed are inadequate to provide control on a long-term basis for many exotic species. They are also expensive and continuous. Previous efforts to control noxious weeds in Hawaii with phytophagous insects have been conducted by the Hawaii State Department of Agriculture primarily for agricultural interests. Similar approaches for the control of exotic plants in Hawaii Volcanoes and Haleakala National Parks may have positive as well as cautionary aspects which must be considered. A literature review revealed numerous references to insects and diseases associated with Hawaii's exotic plants, or related species, in other regions of the world. Some of these, or other suitable organisms not reported here, may offer potential in future biological control programs.
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