Rapid ohia death is a scary thing. The fungal infection kills ohia trees by preventing them from drawing moisture, and precious little is known about the condition. Two types of fungus, so far contained to Hawaii island, are found nowhere else in the world — yet. It’s not known how to eradicate the fungus or indeed, if it can be eradicated.

The disease has killed millions of ohia trees, which are of inestimable value to the native ecosystem and Hawaiian culture. The Legislature will need to consider seriously funding a $10 million plan, proposed last week, to control the spread of the disease.

A ‘people’s park’ for all the people

Mayor Harry Kim, newly returned to his post at the helm of Hawaii County, has come up with a lovely sounding concept of turning Mauna Kea into a “people’s park.” A “people’s park” sounds friendly for such a contested area, which has seen major demonstrations of protest over construction of the Thirty Meter Telescope.

Perhaps a “people’s park” at Mauna Kea, shared by all, could bridge the divide between those who support TMT and those who don’t.