2012-10-30 NKCDP Agriculture Subcommittee Notes Minutes

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Further Discussions: GMO Issue Cipriani & Wille attended a lecture by Dr. Hanalei Roberts at the Algood Barn in Ho'ea on Saturday, 10/27, the topic; "The Effects of consuming GMO foods." The gist of Dr. Roberts report is: "that the literature and data documenting the harmful effects is limited to Veterinary Research on animals," there's no definitive data on the effects of GMOs on human beings, but rather denials by GMO developers, stating that they are "safe for human consumption." It was generally agreed by the people attending the lecture that the opposite is most likely true. Dr. Roberts provided a hand -out listing processed foods having "Invisible GM Ingredients," (unless they are "organic" or declared non -GMO). Also provided, a hand -out on "Tips to avoid GMOs ": 1.) Buy Organic, 2.) Look for Non -GMO seals, 3.) Avoid at -risk Ingredients: 'if it's not labeled "Organic" or verified non -GMO, avoid products made from ingredients derived from GMOs. The ei2ht GM food crops are: Corn, Soybean, Cottonseed, Sugar Beets, Hawai'ian Papaya (most), and a small amount of Zucchini and Yellow Squash. Copies of this Literature and more information on the growing list of Non -GMO Products can be obtained by Downloading the Guide at: http: //NonGmoShoppingGuide.com Discussion: Wille and Cipriani discussed "what action can be taken in District 9 to address these issues." Cipriani reported a conversation with Dr. Jana Bogs, Chief Science Officer at BioFarms Hawaii LLC, about a solution to the problem. It was suggested that we begin here at home in Kohala to develop a "Brand" for labeling "Beyond 'Organic' Produce, from the Soil up ", and try to get all the farmers in our District to get behind the Project. It was agreed that this course of action would be do -able with the involvement and cooperation of Kohala's entire Ag Community. Sustainable AG -Water Development: Wells, Reservoirs, Kohala Ditch, Bond Tunnel Addressing the "Strategic Agricultural Development Plan for North Kohala ": Cipriani spoke in favor of basal -lens well development with reservoirs sited on strategically located Ag lands. The Bond Tunnel sustains lole, considered to be a strategically located site. The Kohala Ditch is considered to be vulnerable to earthquake, therefore not sustainable. We agreed to seek guidance from the County to initiate a development plan for sustainable Ag water. Conclusion: Wille and Cipriani agreed; That despite the non - attendance of invited people, this meeting has been very productive and well worth our time to get together and address the Issues that have been raised so far. Suggestions to motivate the Community's interest and involvement are welcomed. There being no further business or late attendees, the meeting was adjourned at 7:00 pm. NKCDP Agriculture Subcommittee meetings are held the last Tuesday of the month at 6:00 pm at the Intergenerational Center. Anyone who is seriously interested in promoting 21s' Century Diversified Agriculture in North Kohala is urged to attend and contribute.