Cooperative Agreement for Affiliated Partner with the Hawai?i-Pacific Islands Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit (CESU)

This cooperative agreement funds a two‑year research project to assess invasive horticultural plant species that could establish in Hawaiʻi, map invasion‑risk hotspots, and evaluate long‑term spread dynamics. The work will support federal and state biosecurity agencies by providing risk‑based screening tools, early‑detection priorities, and management recommendations, aligning with multiple Executive Orders on preparedness and science. The award is limited to one CESU‑affiliated partner and provides up to $435,000 in funding. • Analyze invasion records and ornamental trade data for ~19,000 plant taxa. • Develop predictive models linking global species ranges to Hawaiʻi conditions. • Produce spatial risk maps and identify high‑risk geographic areas. • Deliver data, reports, and tools to USFWS, NPS, and Hawaiʻi DNR. • Required deliverables include technical reports, datasets, and a Data Management Plan. • Project period: 2 years, with annual progress reports and a final technical report.