As much as artificial grass seems distasteful in the islands, sympathy is due for the long-suffering gardening crews. And Honolulu certainly isn’t alone in its current pursuit of an end to the endless weed-whacking demands of planted areas on public property. The turf industry is growing, even if the turf isn’t.

This solution has down sides, including blocking access to the soil by insects, which could have ecological implications. But it also blocks weed seeds, and Oahu dirt certainly has enough of those.

Hawaii surfers riding high toward 2020

If the athlete lineup shakes out as expected for the debut of surfing as an event at next year’s Tokyo Olympics, Hawaii will be a winner with representation on both U.S. teams. Carissa Moore, 27, a four-time world surfing champion, has secured a spot on the women’s team.

Still competing for a remaining slot on the men’s team are two-time World Surf League champion John John Florence, 27, and 11-time world champ Kelly Slater, 47. Both are in the hunt for ratings points at the now-underway Billabong Pipe Masters, which will help decide selection. The contest site for the 2020 Games will be in waters off Chiba.