The Hawai‘i Department of Agriculture has launched a free treatment program for O‘ahu residents affected by little fire ant infestations. Funded with $1.1 million from the Hawai‘i State Legislature and Governor Josh Green, M.D., the program aims to treat up to 580 homes, according to the Hawai‘i Department of Agriculture.
The Hawai'i Department of Agriculture's Plant Quarantine Branch is leading a statewide effort to control little fire ants, partnering with private pest control professionals to assist homeowners. The program will begin on O‘ahu, with expansion planned for neighboring islands. Homeowners seeking assistance must provide basic contact information and submit test kits to confirm infestation. If little fire ants are detected, Plant Quarantine Branch will conduct a survey and implement a customized treatment plan for the property and affected neighbors.
A state-certified pest control company will apply granular ant baits and a growth inhibitor every six weeks for a total of eight treatments to control little fire ants in residential areas. Plant Quarantine Branch inspectors will monitor the process, and residents are encouraged to check new plants for ants. Originally from South America, little fire ants form large colonies in various environments and deliver stings that can cause red welts in humans and potential blindness in pets. The Hawai'i Department of Agriculture is implementing this program to help manage the spread of little fire ants on Oʻahu.
