JB Friday (NREM) joined Marian Chau of the Lyon Arboretum, Lisa Keith of USDA ARS, and Kumu Kehaulani Kekua of Kaua‘i for in-depth interviews about Rapid ‘Ohi‘a Death on the PBS program Insights. Over the course of the hour-long discussion, the experts described the cultural and ecological significance of this iconic tree and its place in the watersheds of Hawai‘i. They also explained the recently discovered pathogens that cause it and how it is spread by burrowing ambrosia beetles that create fungus-imbued sawdust, which floats over forest canopies and infects other trees.
JB Friday, who won the 2018 award for Excellence in Extension for his work with ROD, has been instrumental in investigating the disease, publicizing its effects, and passing measures to limit its spread.