HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0491.086 2020-2022 Coundil
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From: Colehour Bondera BOUNTY OF HAWAII
Sent: Tuesday, December 21, 2021 12:45 PM 1011 DEC 2 1 PH 1m 29
To: Council Testimony
Subject: Bill 91 Testimony
Aloha County Council Members:
Thank you for your attention to this matter, which is very important for our island, for our environment, for our
families, for our children and for our economy.
Bill 91 was introduced by a Council Representative who looks out for the needs of the community and my
appreciation of Rebecca Villegas' efforts is deep...
That said, as an organic farmer, I know that we do not need to reply upon or introduce these expensive off-farm
inputs, when the same resources can and should instead be dedicated to environmental, worker and children safety
and using non-chemical controls is not truly more, but rather support to local families instead of to non-Hawaiian
companies who are manufacturing and shipping such toxic chemicals.
Farming does not need these chemical inputs. Less-so does management of County property, which can be kept
healthy and vibrant with soil health and plant nutrition as the areas of focus.
Lets'work together to recognize that non-profit groups, such as Beyond Pesticides, of which I serve on the Board of
Directors, is in place to help all find non-chemical solutions to engagement which is needed at the community, park
and farm levels.
As a former member(for five years) of the National Organic Standards Board, which advises the Secretary of
Agriculture on organic crop inputs, my understanding of the systems in place for chemicals is extensive.
As the father of two children who were raised in South Kona, my knowledge and concerns of human health is also
well established.
This Bill only applies to County property. It will be a good starting point, as an example, and will serve as a good
way for Hawaii to aim to be chemical input free in the future, so that we are not relying on imported chemicals to
thrive as a paradise. Remember that less than 100 years have passed with these chemicals being treated as
"necessary". They are dangerous and not needed, is the truth. Glyphosate is a serious toxic chemical, and the
formulation Round-up is very unsafe, with no other formulations neutral for any humans or for environmental
impact(s).
Please support Bill 91.
Sincerely,
Colehour Bondera
KANALANI OHANA FARM
Honaunau, HI 96726 Comoro No.
Ref. To: W
Ref. Date DEC Z 2 202
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