08-02-2010, 05:36 AM
You pose a very good question, Jeffrey. The incoming Hawaii Ag inspections are done about 99% on the honor system, with only rare random checks. I once observed dogs in the baggage claim at HNL that appeared to be screening for plant and/or food material, based on the uniforms of the handlers. Currently, the State has no money for additional inspectors, but I don't know what the excuse was before that. A bigger problem for insect pests (and perhaps some plant pests) are cargo containers. Stricter measures would seem to be called for, but don't expect change any time soon.