$1m to fight the Coffee Berry Borer

Coffee producers in Hawaii have been fighting the Coffee Berry Borer for some time now but according to reports in the American press they are going to get a helping hand from Washington. 

The U.S Department of Agriculture has announced that fund totalling $1m were to be released, with the money being split between the island state and farmers in Puerto Rico, who are also suffering from insect infestation. This pot of cash will help bankroll research initiatives and eradication programmes.

The borer has been causing problems for Hawaii’s coffee farmers for a number of years now, but the outbreaks were typically restricted to certain areas of the Big Island. However things took a turn for the worst about twelve months ago when the beetle was found in Waialua, Oahu, a hub for the state’s coffee trade. And with nearly 10,000 acres of land primed for coffee growing and an estimated commercial value of $54m, this represents a serious problem.

“In the past few years, we have seen the devastating impact the coffee berry borer has had on Hawaii and the farmers that grow it,” said Senator Brian Schatz.

“This federal investment will go a long way in helping local farmers protect their farms and limit the spread of this invasive species.”

It is believed that about 40% of farmers on the islands have been impacted by the borer at some point over the previous four years.

Joining Senator Schultz in welcoming the donation from Washington was Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard, the Representative for Hawaii’s second congressional district: “I continue to be fully engages with Hawaii’s coffee farmers as we work to fend off this invasive species,” she said.

“I am pleased to see the USDA’s continued support in eradicating this noxious species.”

The Hawaii State Legislature has also increased resources which are to be used to minimise the crop damage caused by the beetle, freeing up $500,000 in subsidies which will be available to local farmers, allowing them to acquire any necessary chemicals and equipment. These funds will be available for four years and will cover three-quarters of the cost if ordered before June 2016.

photo: Michael Sprague (Creative Commons)