Alumni News

A novel virus, potentially fatal to whales and dolphins, has been discovered by researchers in the Dept. of Human Nutrition, Food, and Animal Sciences. Prior to its discovery in 10 whale and dolphin host species across the Pacific, the virus was found in only a single marine mammal worldwide.

Rotting and leafless avocado trees are spreading nationwide due to lace bugs. With the trees in jeopardy, Extension agents in the Dept. Of Tropical Plant and Soil Sciences are doing extensive research to determine the most effective courses of action to get rid of these pests. Their research thus far has determined some strategies that could help avocado tree owners decrease their chances of attaining lace bugs and even exterminating them.

For many 4-H youths, the National 4-H Congress is a highly anticipated annual event that celebrates the culmination of a year’s worth of personal growth, hard work, and service-learning. Hundreds of 4-H delegates gather every year in Atlanta, Georgia to network with other 4-H peers from around the nation, participate in community service events, and attend workshops about leadership, volunteering, global awareness, and inclusion.

This Valentine’s day, the Dept. of Family and Consumer Sciences’ Home Garden Network worked with Mental Health Kokua to show support for those struggling with mental health challenges by making and donating ikebana flower arrangements.

With seasonal rains coming down seemingly nonstop, the topic of irrigation was front and center as Oʻahu County Extension hosted a workshop for backyard and Master Gardeners. Guests welcomed the opportunity to get out of the rains to attend the educational workshop as Extension agents explained measures that CTAHR has taken to reduce potable water use at the Urban Garden Center, and the role of Cooperative Extension in fulfilling CTAHR’s land grant college mission.