Little Fire Ant Infestations Expand in Kapalua, Maui County
What happened
The Maui Invasive Species Committee confirmed a Little Fire Ant infestation in the Kapalua Golf and Plantation Estates area on June 25, 2026, which currently covers nearly 40 acres and could expand up to 125 acres. The County of Maui Department of Agriculture is urging residents and producers to remain vigilant following the detection of two significant infestations in Maui County, including one in Haʻikū.
From mauinow.com
Why it matters
The presence of Little Fire Ants threatens agriculture and native biodiversity in the area. The total acreage of Little Fire Ant infestations on Maui nearly doubled between January 2024 and July 2026. The County of Maui is coordinating community meetings and aerial drone treatments to manage the spread.
From mauinow.com
Who's involved
- KapaluaCensus-designated place where the confirmed pest infestation is occurring
- Maui CountyCounty responsible for coordinating the public health and agricultural response
- MauiIsland where the pest infestation and response efforts are taking place
Who could feel it
Possible knock-on effectsThese are possibilities Brind reasoned out, not predictions, and not advice. Most are not stated in any report.
- KapaluaSpeculative
Agricultural producers in Kapalua might face increased costs or reduced crop yields due to the pest infestation.
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The entities involved
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Kapalua
census-designated place in Maui County, Hawaii, United States of America
Nothing else this week.
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Maui
second-largest of the Hawaiian Islands, in the United States
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