Current News and Info:
Independently conducted coffee cupping of coffee processed differently:
Below are notes and summaries from an independently conducted coffee cupping of coffee processed different ways. Although this was not a Kona County Farm Bureau event, KCFB is posting the information so it is available for anyone interested to read. While the cupping was an interesting exercise, no definite conclusions can be drawn from it.
If you have any questions about it or would like to discuss Duane or Rick's observations, please call Duane at 808-328-8161, or Rick at 808-328-9552 and read the documents below.
Stinging nettle caterpillar
The stinging nettle caterpillar is all over the east side of the Island of Hawaii. It is recently been located in 3-5 places in Kona: Keahole Ag Park, Hualalai Resort, and in the Lako Street area between Lako and Royal Poinciana. I don't know the other locations yet. The caterpillar has spines all over its body, hence the name, Stinging Nettle Caterpillar. It is the spines that cause the problem and some people are allergic to them and may need to go to the doctor or Emergency Room for treatment.
Per the State Pest Control division, the safest and least expensive method of eradication is to use Bacillus thuringiensis (BT) in powdered form mixed with water. Follow directions exactly. Spray all palms, ti, mondo grass, lillies, etc. BT infects the caterpillar within hours of eating leaves coated with BT. It takes several days for BT to starve the caterpillar, but the caterpillar stops eating within a few hours, although it lives for several more days. BT is not toxic to humans or pets or livestock. There are other insecticides that work more quickly but they are very toxic. Use BT. It does break down in sunlight, so you will need to respray per directions.The state and the county are not going to be able to help us. It is up to each resident in infected areas to spray for these caterpillars. The adult form is a small moth that is attracted to bug zappers. Place a pan of soapy water underneath the zapper in case a moth escapes, it will drown in the water. The problem for farmers and growers is that pickers may refuse to work on property with these pests. I have included 3 publications to help you identify this pest and begin treatment. Let's keep the stinging nettle caterpillar from spreading in Kona.
Brenda Ford
Hawai'i County Council
75-5706 Hanama Place, Suite 109
Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
(808) 326-5684
bford@co.hawaii.hi.us