Agricultural Programs

The objective of this program is to increase agricultural income and opportunities on Kauai through working closely with farmer groups to assist them in obtaining resources and other assistance to solve industry problems or take advantage of opportunities. The work involves interfacing with federal and state farm agencies as well as the primarily affected on island groups in the crafting of responses to problems and opportunities.

• Administrative support and oversight of the Kauai Sunshine Farmers’ Markets.
• High School Agriculture Internship Programs.
• Various development programs assisted: University of Hawaii at Manoa and Agriculture Development Corporation.
• Exploration of possibilities for a range fed beef program on Kauai and improvement of logistics for joint on-island cattle finishing.
• Mayor’s initiative program: Kauai label of origin, improved “deluxe” Sunshine Market.
• Participation in and support for a variety of agricultural events organized by other agencies such as Kauai County Farm Bureau Fair, Kauai Garden Fair, Agricultural and Environmental Awareness Day and others.
• The Specialist maintains memberships and participates in meetings of a variety of state-wide organizations such as the Hawaii Farm Bureau Federation, Hawaii Forest Industry Association, Hawaii Tropical Fruit Growers, Hawaii Farmers Union United, Garden Island Resource Conservation District, and Hawaii Papaya Industry Association .

As required by law, grants are developed with non-profits from agricultural industry sectors such as: Hawaii Tropical Flower and Foliage Association, Kauai Chapter, Kauai County Farm Bureau, Kauai Cattlemen's Association, Garden Island Research, Conservation and Development, Inc., Hawaii Aquaculture Development Association, and others. Agricultural grants are not available for individual businesses and farmers.