Hawaii is training new inspectors to catch invasive species before they land, which is good news for farmers and the islands' native plants and wildlife.

• The state's agriculture and biosecurity department is launching an academy with Leeward Community College.
• Up to 12 people will be picked for the first class, starting in November.
• Applications opened this week.
• Graduates will check cargo at airports and harbors and help respond when pests slip through.

Outlook: The first group starts next month, with more inspectors on the ground soon after.