HONOLULU (KHON2) — A new type of technology is being introduced in the long fight against Little Fire Ants (LFA).
May is invasive species awareness month, and the Oʻahu Invasive Species Committee has been busy implementing new technology to aid in the fight against LFA eradication with the use of drones.
WakeUp2Day’s Chris Latronic went live in Kahaluʻu to learn more. He met with Erin Bishop, the Outreach Coordinator for the Oʻahu Invasive Species Committee & Timo Sullivan of Aloha Aina Drone Company to witness their current engagement of an LFA infestation area using a heavy-duty aerial drone.
The Ka‘iwa Ridge Trail, popularly known as the Lanikai Pillbox Trail, was recently closed and was determined that an aerial approach would be the best option to treat the tricky ridge terrain with Aloha ‘Āina Drones selected to support the project.
Drones are being used to deliver growth-inhibiting treatments to areas that are difficult to access by foot or by traditional methods that would normally take excessive personal time and effort.
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“Drone technology is advancing our efforts to move this site from an active infestation to eradication,” said Erin Bishop. “Drones offer a faster, safer and more cost-effective way to treat large, steep areas.”
As of April 2025, there have been over 80 LFA detections on island.
Bishop added, “We’re thrilled to move forward with this innovative approach — without it, the threat of LFA spreading into surrounding residential and recreational areas would remain. This marks a major step forward in protecting our communities and environment.”
The goal is to move these sites from active infestations to eradication. The project also includes long-term monitoring to ensure that LFA populations do not rebound after treatment.