Honorable Robert Bunda

President of the Senate

Twenty-First State Legislature

Regular Session of 2001

State of Hawaii

Sir:

Your Committee on Agriculture, to which was referred S.B. No. 639 entitled:

begs leave to report as follows:

The purpose of this measure is to appropriate funds for the implementation of short-term control methods to stop the spread of fireweed.

Your Committee received testimony in favor of this measure from the Department of Agriculture, Hawaii Farm Bureau, Hawaii Agriculture Research Center, Hawaii Cattlemen's Council, Inc., Parker Ranch, Haleakala Ranch, Hawaii Audubon Society, and members of the Maui County Council. One individual testified orally.

Your Committee finds that fireweed is a serious noxious weed which, when ingested, is poisonous to Hawaii's cattle, horses, and other livestock. Its toxicological effects cause damage to the liver and neurological system and eventually lead to death. In addition, due to its invasive nature, fireweed threatens Hawaii's native plant ecosystems. Your Committee finds that funds are needed to implement short-term solutions to halt the spread of fireweed in Hawaii.

As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Agriculture that is attached to this report, your Committee is in accord with the intent and purpose of S.B.

No. 639 and recommends that it pass Second Reading and be referred to the Committee on Ways and Means.