ARMY UPDATE: Army attacking fountain grass near Makua, April 21

fountain grass

Kaneana Cave

Aloha Community Leaders,

For your awareness — This Thursday, April 21, the Army’s Natural Resources Program is launching another effort to destroy invasive fountain grass on the cliffs above Kaneana Cave, near Makua Military Reservation.

This is a joint, ongoing effort between the Army and the Oahu Invasive Species Committee (OISC) keep the destructive, non-native grass from spreading across the Waianae Coast. Fountain grass is a state-listed noxious weed; poses a major fire threat due to its flammability; and can destroy native habitat.

Operations will only take place in optimal (low wind/rain) weather conditions from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. During application, a small 4-door civilian helicopter may be visible from Farrington Highway near Makua Valley.

There are no rare or endangered plants within the treatment area, and the application does not pose a risk to ground or ocean waters, springs, or wells of Makua Valley. The activity is not expected to impact area motorists or recreational users.

Fountain grass is well-established elsewhere on Oahu. Community members can help stop the spread of invasive seeds by washing boots after each hike, and if found, contact OISC for proper disposal at 808-266-7994 or www.oahuisc.org.

Mahalo,

Stefanie Gutierrez

Public Affairs Office

U.S. Army Garrison-Hawaii & U.S. Army Hawaii