Coqui Brigade Stays Vigilant In East Oahu

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The Coqui Frog Task Force in East Oahu was created recently by state Rep. Gene Ward’s office to stave off a possible frog infestation in the area.

Now headed by Makani Christensen, efforts focus on the educating schoolchildren about the potential problem.

“What we’re doing is bringing it to the front lines of the keiki and to the schools - the elementary and middle schools,” said Ward, “teaching kids things such as the sound of the coqui, what to do and who to call.”

Coquis have been reported in neighboring areas such as Kailua and Waimanalo, as well as a few in Hawaii Kai. Koko Head and Hahaione elementary schools have had task force presentations, and may add it to the curriculum.

“It’s getting closer to home,” noted Ward. “We love our neighborhood and love our peace and quiet. So when you hear it, you report it, and the state comes in and eradicates it. It needs to be zero tolerance.

“We don’t want to overact, but we don’t want to be sleeping, so we are taking it very seriously. Educating people is important so they know immediately what to do.”

For updated information, call 586-6420.