The state Department of Agriculture has implemented a stopgap rule to quell the spread of little fire ants across Oahu, according to a news release Wednesday.

The spread of the invasive stinging ants across Windward Oahu fueled public outcry over alleged inaction from the DOA.

The interim rule authorizes the DOA to curb the ants’ spread by restricting the on-island movement of infested and untreated agricultural products such as plants, soil and compost.

The agency will now be able to quarantine infested areas and restrict the outward movement of potentially infested material without DOA-witnessed and -approved treatment.

The interim rule came into effect Tuesday. The rule will be effective for one year and is intended to be a stopgap while permanent rules are finalized.

The DOA came under increased scrutiny in 2023 for its inability to effectively regulate the movement of plant products infested with invasive species, such as LFA or coconut rhinoceros beetles.

The department previously held reservations about its ability to “adequately and fairly” enforce quarantine procedures on infested products and businesses, DOA Director Sharon Hurd said in a press release.

This year legislators are considering several bills aimed at quelling the spread of invasive species, including some to address the agency’s staff and funding woes.

“There is more optimism this year that the resources will be made available to the department to carry out the daunting task of eradicating and controlling invasive pests,” Hurd said.

Violators of the interim rule face a misdemeanor and a minimum fine of $100. The maximum fine is $10,000.

The interim rule is currently focused on Oahu, though the DOA is considering similar rules to be applied on Kauai and Maui.

Before those rules can be implemented there are “serious challenges” for staffing that need to be addressed, according to the DOA release.

“Hawaii Grown” is funded in part by grants from the Stupski Foundation, Ulupono Fund at the Hawaii Community Foundation and the Frost Family Foundation.