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2. AGRICULTURAL INDUSTRY NEEDS AND GAPS A needs and gaps assessment was undertaken as part of the outreach effort to gain a comprehensive understanding of the challenges faced by local farmers and ranchers on Hawai'i island.This effort aimed to collect stakeholder feedback,` and perspectives to identify the specific needs of the agricultural community in relation to services provided by UH. , ;' The outreach process sought to identify unique challenges faced by individual farmers and ranchers,as well as shared 17 challenges that affect the agriculture community as a whole.By understanding these challenges,it became possible to T identify synergistic solutions and establish long-term goals that could benefit the entire agriculture cluster. /l,J The purpose of the collaborative outreach was to identify: � ► Workforce availability and projected needs c ► Gaps in UH programs and extension services ,""...1 ► Gaps in student readiness and UH support of workforce needs ► Projects to address gaps and support the agricultural cluster Agricultural Stakeholder Interviews Through stakeholder interviews,agricultural non-profits,farmers,and ranchers were given an opportunity to voice their concerns,share their experiences,and provide insights into the challenges they face.By gathering (m`) ° feedback and insights from stakeholders,it became possible to identify areas where UH programs and 1'�.` extension services could help to fill specific needs and gaps. ' Agricultural Stakeholder Survey cc) In February of 2022,an online survey was conducted and distributed to agricultural industry stakeholders J - including agricultural owners and operators,processors,distributors,and non-profits.The purpose of the ry",,r ; survey was to confirm the critical needs and gaps within the agricultural cluster and gather input on strategies t to improve UH's role within the cluster.268 responses were gathered over a two-week period,indicating a high level of interest and engagement.More than half of the respondents were owners or operators of farms, ✓ nurseries,orchards,ranches,and aquacultural operations.Key findings from the survey are summarized in the infographic on the following page. 6 7 '.