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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0872.002 2022-2024 Mitchell D. Roth f*_" y % Douglass S. Adams Mayor • ,.' . Director t;;% Frecia Cevallos Deputy Director County of Hawai'i DEPARTMENT OF RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT 25 Aupuni Street,Room 1301 • Hilo,Hawai'i 96720-4252 (808)961-8366• Fax(808)935-1205 E-mail: chresdev@co.hawaii.hi.us , 7- May 20 2024 --< Heather L. Kimball, Council Chair And Members of the Hawaii County Council L { County of Hawaii 25 Aupuni St Room 1402 Hilo, Hawaii 96720 Re: Data and Report to Support Resolution 515-24, Resolution Authorizing the Mayor to enter into a Multi-year Agreement with the University of Hawaii at Manoa The Department of Research and Development is submitting the attached documents, at the request of the Committee on Finance. This is in support of the adoption of Resolution 515-24, Resolution Authorizing the Mayor to enter into a Multi-year Agreement with the University of Hawaii at Manoa. Very Respectfully, Glenn T. Sako Economic Development Specialist Department of Research and Development County of Hawaii Comm.Comm. .. 2 11 . . Ref. To: M IRO Ref. Dote 1 Hawai'i County is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer `'r. * ' tk:-Tc,•7•• . .-- • . -e' lir - , -,,,,c.,7- ,- .., •' ' -.: ..."';'' :4-2' - •, - t1,1," 'J 4 ,!...•••74',I.;;:el ,. •N4.....A , A 1 A • * ''le .di I( '. 4. „...- 41:47'V-1/4,' - . .A1 00, orks4 die . , —,, f ' • • ' 'le-- — •v-.4 • -_ , ., . , , ,„.. ...°, ' :•. ,.. •'''''.'1*-0-• ' .14. . ,.. "" ",••-• '''• • ' '; .•':"I'l • - -J. %,;•1:' 1 „*". • -r?-.ii•z•,•_, -'• -,„ ,:-.),,^,-,„_ . ' , - ''• '%, -.- ,' ... ' ':"'X, ' ',7`" ';_,..,,4'.5.75 ,p$ oi.0191e.rc,--1*X,i1::**... ''. '''• •'. ', '.11,,,*. _,:,,,, 4,;•-••••6.0. e,--•. , .---v.,,N.74.', ,. ,' '.-y.',-. - .. ,I..t....-i14.4`;-t, .-""'--• '. 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' • p1.107.`4 ',,:-..'"f'.. - !7.:_-?:.•."--s..--"..:".":"'"._-.2.'""- ,,.:'-:: .,":, ":,..;t.,'".V.-.;'::,'"c.,-"`-; ,.. .c.•,.,,,sz., .,,,,f;‘;..:i,'...:21; St,17; - -:".".; •",:',.;.'l •"--- ',''',1"-''''"---'-'"•.,"-•-', .• ". - ,1' .4.6;.4.:1,..1;-`11.E '''''•1-1::- ..^-':-•;;'-'"-' '-, --'-'--,•-•'.":,"'"I''''' *.•".‘•-"'"..-•"-"-,-";-:,-..,--,-.;"; . ,;•,:-.•,7',1.`";;;°r.-", ... ."'''',',,•- ,..e.."--4,W.. .'V,,,,"`-'' - •• . 7-'!,-.:•.-"..r""'! ; aleataraa.,....- "- " " " • •. .._. .• .,.. illiii-L."'" "4Li-1.• "..iii4a.'illiiiilarliii. -'iliiiirdi • TABLE OF CONTENTS 1. Background 1 2. Agricultural Industry Needs and Gaps 6 3. Priority Investments 10 4. References 23 tt ' 1 . BACKGROUND Agriculture has deep-rooted significance in Hawai'i culture and plays an integral role in the well-being of our communities.Hawai'i Island boasts year-round weather conditions ideal for sustainable agricultural production.The State of Hawai'i has set a goal to double local food production to 20-30%by 2030 and has articulated a commitment to ``•°w"' Q perpetuating agriculture as a key component of Hawai'i's economic and social well-being'2.Despite this,the industry faces hardships that continue to impact the growth and viability of farm businesses,and Hawai'i still relies on imports "' for approximately 90%of its food. °. The University of Hawaii(UN)plays a central role in the agricultural cluster on Hawaii Island.The UH system provides ,. key functions that form the building blocks for a sustainable and resilient agriculture economy,including education, research,workforce development,technical support,innovation,capacity building,and advocacy.Therefore,strategic investments in the UH system can have transformative potential for the agricultural cluster. This report is the culmination of a collaborative effort between UH entities and agricultural stakeholders to identify : 0 priority investments that answer to specific needs of agricultural producers on Hawaii Island. ,, Cr. s` Much of the effort was driven by the opportunity to participate in an Economic Development Administration(EDA) Build Back Better Regional Challenge(BBBRC)Phase II grant application process led by the County of Hawai'i r Department of Research and Development(R&D).A Hawai'i Island coalition including UH entities and other stakeholders was convened by R&D in 2021 to shape a vision for agricultural progress and identify priority projects to expand agricultural services across the island.A 3-month outreach process was conducted around the BBBRC grant '"-; "ftesoso, application period in December 2021 through February 2022 to identify industry needs and gaps and determine a strategic direction for investments in the UH system moving forward. While the BBBRC grant was not ultimately awarded to the coalition,the outreach effort identified a number of .;. transformational projects and initiatives for UH to advance Hawaii Island's agricultural economy and established a foundation for collaboration which has continued beyond the grant application effort.The priority investments .7.:': (1171 presented in this report originated from the grant application effort,and were confirmed and updated in 2023 with the participation of the UH coalition members,who are listed on the following page. - Following this introductory section,the report is organized as follows. 1. Section 2 describes the approach and findings of the Needs and Gaps Assessment that was conducted to analyze industry needs in relation to UH's existing programs and services. 2. Section 3 presents the Priority Investments that were identified to improve UH's role in supporting the agricultural cluster on Hawaii Island. 1 UH COALITION MEMBERS County of Hawai'i Department of Research and Development(R&D) *Ilittli'l•v, yir--a,.,, The County of Hawai'i Department of research and Development is the local economic development agency for the County and the lead coalition member.The Director of R&D is the project's Regional Economic Competitiveness Officer.The County has chosen coalition members based on organizations that are committed to integrated solutions that meet the community's , economic,equity,and sustainable development goals. Coirege of Agriculture, Forestry and Natural Resource Management (CAFNRM) ;•. The purpose of CAFNRM is to provide quality education to assist individuals in acquiring the w_b scientific knowledge,attitudes,and practical skills needed to practice environmentally sound, sustainable agriculture and to be productive and responsible global citizens.CAFNRM graduates ,, M skilled agriculturalists who can further develop and promote agriculture in the State of Hawai'i, * the United States,the Pacific Basin,and other countries.The College is especially interested in moving agriculture in the tropical and semitropical areas of the Pacific Basin toward more economical and self-sustaining methods. College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources (CTAHR) The College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources(CTAHR)was established with the kwa p_ E h o�• founding of UH in 1907.CTAHR is a leading academic institution in tropical agriculture,biological CTAH R engineering,food science and human nutrition,fashion design and merchandising, 0 biotechnology,natural resources and environmental management,and family resources.The college is the locus of educational opportunities for students preparing to become tomorrow's scientists,technologists,business leaders,family development specialists,fashion designers and merchandisers,nutritionists,and policy makers. Howai'i Community College (HCC) a5%cv opti Hawai'i Community College embraces the concept of Kauhale that traditionally means the • ,4-.a= i..-.a ';_ Hawaiian village.To promote lifelong learning,Hawai'i Community College emphasizes the —� ' I knowledge and experience necessary for Kauhale members to pursue academic achievement " ., ;�L. . , and workforce readiness.The Agriculture program at Hawai'i Community College prepares *4.„' .,,;,. students for employment in government service,agribusiness,horticulture,livestock,flowers and foliage,landscape,macadamia nuts,papaya,and coffee industries. ._ 2 -'. kr Pacific Aquaculture and Coastal Resources Center(PA CRC) The mission of the Pacific Aquaculture and Coastal Resources Center(PACRC)is to advance long- term sustainable use and conservation of coastal areas worldwide through aquaculture and resource management.The Center promotes excellence and innovation in interdisciplinary scientific research,public policy initiatives,outreach activities,and education.PACRC is a project of the University of Hawai'i at Hilo in cooperation with the County of Hawai`i,the Keaukaha Community Association,and the UH Sea Grant College Program. Go Farm GoFarm Hawaii is a statewide Beginning Farmer Training Program with sites on O'ahu,Kauai, Maui,and Hawaii Island.Its mission is to enhance Hawai'i's food security and economy by 00 increasing the number of sustainable,local agricultural producers by providing hands on ti?S commercial farm and business training. Big Island Invasive Species Committee (BIISC) BIISC is a project of the University of Hawai'i-Pacific Cooperative Studies Unit.The committee is a (43 voluntary partnership of government,private and non-profit organizations,and concerned individuals.Its mission is to prevent,detect,and control the establishment and spread of invasive species threats to our environment,economy,and way of life.BIISC works island wide protecting !ir. our native forests,communities,and agriculture from new and ongoing threats. • ICC 4 3 OVERVIEW OF OUTREACH EFFORT 268 =22 o SURVEYBil ••• WORKSHOP `¢�,,. RESPONSES olla EEO" PARTICIPANTS Me 18 AI O0 INTERVIEWS Sera"Grantm Sto C No [VIISore � rth 1 ��r� ,,o o- HonuaQparr t:;e ac .0 0aBoenQrgy 00 �y��• Ulu County of Ha�nrai�i HCC 40 Co-Op Hawai OP UFO Hilo Aquacutture and 1911- Aguaooncs Associintic. . (Mau � C J / UV�►. sours Conservation Kamuot a Ka`u Coffee ' tom, �', awdoli n Vacuum Cooling Coop Dalla S I CAFNRM '`., .' Q Iulittie ., i , ' • ' -1 ) i - • .. , - , •• f , ..: = / • I , ... k•.-A - 4"1 : ,:i . , ... -.,.- ,-'; .,-,'-4 ., ; ;,_ : .:.• „., _ „,, , -,... 2.- ,„ 2.44:1L- 7 It_ . :•••.: --(' ..IT'" ,)1, •;', , ,, 4 4 • 'lit , '..- — "P''"diaN6 41'_ . , • /AO .40 ;'/3••':--4...6'.-'' .. -... ' 1 -, .... 'Le,,. , 611111111 .; ' I FitY1'..".'•- fc, • ' ill '—' if • `•"4'1. .it•. ' .)--,.-.1 ,, 64114 ' ' '1' 4-.---"1.'".--' Z,' • • - ' as ' t - •,. ..''-.- • .. •- ,,T.- - ' Aslii.li .. ,.• 4,7.I. „..., ?e• .,. 1 :.•4; 3 ',r''''''''4 ." . .•t.' 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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 '. • • Hawai`i Island Agricultural Stakeholder Survey Findings . The survey,conducted in February 2022,provided valuable insights on the needs of agricultural stakeholders �. and how the services provided by UH could be improved to benefit the agricultural cluster on Hawai`i Island.0°11 �� Services... © Research and training... 92% Expanding current extension services 94�� Research and training on local agriculture greatly or somewhat help pests and diseases & .. v greatly or somewhat help ..' J 89% Developing new forms of , V extension services 90% Research and training on greatly or somewhat help control of invasive species ,� greatly or somewhat help 9 1 % Better online information and tools to help local farmers 84� Research and training on the business (� greatly or somewhat help aspects of agriculture ^�• greatly or somewhat help , Helping arrange on-farm I—. apprenticeships apprenticeships greatly or somewhat help .......) 141161144rt� Degree programs... 1 �� 570 Producing more graduates with 2-year agriculture degrees ` greatly or somewhat help trQ�j J V/PJ �" Producing more graduates with 4- year agriculture degrees greatly or somewhat help - f� 55% Offering more certificate programs greatly or somewhat help ., 7 NEEDS AND GAPS IDENTIFIED he. The needs and gaps identified through the collaborative outreach process were organized into six overarching ' themes.Subsequent analysis was undertaken to identify how UH services currently align with these needs and where there are gaps that could potentially be filled by UH or other coalition members.This resulted in a comprehensive °' understanding of how UH services could be expanded for enhanced support to the local agricultural cluster. (� J _ 1 Enhancing Business Acumen Expanding and Diversifying the Workforce C ► Research and training on business aspects of ► Increase the number of UH students hired into the rV II s agriculture local ag sector �V a;" ► Increase agribusiness knowledge and skills ► Increase attractiveness and sustainability of ) F> ► Develop a sustainable business model for aggregation agriculture jobs r--+. and processing ► Make farm worker housing more feasible and ► Develop models and strategies for food hubs affordable -5''' ir ► Economic and market data analysis ► On-farm apprenticeships ► Increased knowledge about forming and operating ► Stimulate more awareness and interest through K-12 co-ops education C ► More online courses and seminars for business ► Promoting diversity and equity across the sector r aspects ► Train more workers to be proficient with new (I) ''� ► Need for language translation services for non-English agriculture and aquaculture technologies -" i speaking farmers and workers " 1 1 rV , 8 - ,. x '*7 d 3 0 6 ,.:,,.. Enhancing Sector Value Chain Reducing Threats Ct ► Develop supply chain partnerships ► Improve disease and pest management research and `.+.J ► Increase connections and collaboration throughout the extension agricultural system ► Increase and develop organic waste diversion systems t'. ► Increase access to food processing facilities and knowledge ► Maintain online database of diseases and pests with 4'z ► Increase access to data and information/tools for farmers management options V ► Assistance with pathology and bio-controls ► Improved invasive species control ► Strategies to address climate change impacts ,- ► Integrated pest management and biological control ' Cf 411111 c Increasing Market Size I'....► ► Provide agricultural marketing extension services ► Explore mechanization and other labor substitution ► Produce more localgraduates to meet demand "V strategies �'1 ► Build stronger brand preference for local products ► Assess potential for new technologies to enhance local "") ► Integrate sustainable food systems in school curricula agricultural sector ► Strengthen common definitions of food security and ► More animal science extension services sustainability ► Water catchment systems extension services 1"Y` ► Stimulate more awareness and interest in agriculture ► Expand Integrated Cropping System project Dj through K-12 education ► Expand PACRC Regional Aquaculture Extension Program �5: � ► Conduct research and market development for ► Research partnerships with local growers s underutilized crops ► More check-ins with farmers ► Farm to table matchmaking,connecting with UH culinary ► Extension training on robotics and other technologies program ► Research/pilot testing of new technologies and applications ► Expand revenue generating opportunities for farmers for Hawai'i(such as field trials) 9 3. PRIORITY INVESTMENTS The identification of priority investments was guided by input from the stakeholder interviews and surveys,as well as by coordination with UH coalition members.Early in the outreach process,interviews were conducted with individual UH coalition members to gather baseline information on existing programs,plans,and priorities.A workshop was held with the UH coalition members to share the results of the needs and gaps assessment and identify short-,mid-,and long- term investment opportunities for inclusion in the BBBRC grant application. The priority investments that resulted from the workshop and subsequent coordination amongst UH coalition members reflected a combination of stakeholder input,grant application criteria,and individual program priorities.Unfortunately, the BBBRC grant was ultimately not awarded to the coalition.To ensure the effort invested in the grant application would be put to productive use,the County of Hawai'i undertook additional outreach to each of the UH coalition members in 2023 to re-confirm the priority investments and update them as needed to support future funding requests. The priority investments identified in this report are designed to leverage the institutional capacity of the UH system to support the agricultural cluster on Hawaii island with the capacity to sustainably generate new jobs and income suited to the Island's unique resources and diverse communities.The investments reflect three overarching strategies that answer to the needs and gaps identified by industry stakeholders: 1) Build vital extension and outreach services to address the current landscape and industry needs; 2) Engage in place-based research to support indigenous and diversified crops and value added agricultural production;and 3) Expand and innovate the spectrum of workforce pathways from UH institutions into the agricultural cluster to meet critical and emerging industry needs. The priority investments are presented on the following pages,categorized into short term(1-2 years),mid term(2-3 years),and long term(3 years and beyond)timelines.Icons are used to show how each investment addresses key needs and gaps identified by the agricultural stakeholders on Hawai`i Island. These priority investments are intended to provide a roadmap for strategic investments in the UH system that will lead to measurable improvements in UH's support of the agricultural cluster on Hawai'i Island. 10 DESCRIPTION ACTIONS LEAD IMPLEMENTER SHORTTERM[approximately 1-2 yearsi UH Hui Facilitation and Evaluation Strategic planning for UH programs that support the ► Hire an external UH Coalition agricultural industry with monthly stakeholder meetings. facilitator/evaluator Invasive Species Survey Project The Big Island Invasive Species Committee(BIISC)conducts early detection and rapid response operations island-wide for new invasive species threats including plants,animals ► Provide impact report to develop and pathogens,through roadside surveys,aerial surveys, response plans for mitigation, and focused trapping programs.Early detection is critical suppression or eradication of to reducing the long-term costs of managing a pest and invasive species. can at times lead to complete island-wide eradication. ► Provide response personnel to Large agricultural properties can be the most challenging, assist in removal of species. BIISC and therefore underserved,land areas for a variety of ► Increase coverage of active reasons,primarily barriers to access and communication surveillance island-wide. with the producer. This project will open doors for BIISC to ► Work with Ma'ona farms to provide on-farm surveys for new invasive pests,work with develop best management CTAHR and Producers to implement control and mitigation practices for decentralized measures,develop on-farm biosecurity(pest prevention) composting. plans;and reduce the long-term costs of new invasive species on ag lands. SW Enhancing Business Acumen ��" Expanding/Diversifying the Workforce Enhancing Sector Value Chain Reducing Threats l_ Increasing Market Size Increasing Productivity 11 DESCRIPTION ACTIONS LEAD IMPLEMENTER SHORT TERM[approximately 1-2 years . . Invasive Species Career Pathways Project The development of a summer service-learning program will assist BIISC in meeting its invasive species management ► Summer service training goals while providing job training and experience to program.Paid UH students seeking jobs in agriculture and forestry upon student/recent graduate graduation.Through this project,students will learn how to identify common native and invasive plants,manage field positions in invasive species BIISC6 gear and tools,operate small machinery,select and use management.Year 1:survey, pesticides safely,use appropriate PPE,use technology tools control,data collection, including GPS,mobile mapping and data collection/record- pesticide safety,basic field keeping apps,and communicate effectively with operations,first aide. supervisors,co-workers,and the public. Regenerative,Sustainable,and Resilient Agronomics/Cropping Technologies ► Add dedicated hire to revamp curriculum and leverage ag network to incorporate new technologies in curriculum and Develop courses and internal programs that leverage UH's outreach training • • academic and industrial network to access technologies for ► Seek to translate technologies EMI demonstration in Hawai'i,then incorporate these developed for large-scale crops CAFNRM approaches into CAFNRM curriculum(including accessible to Hawaii conditions short courses)and outreach training. ► Work with farmers on evidence- based approaches for continual improvement,and expand UH field trial sites ► Host visiting researchers Enhancing Business Acumen IMI Expanding/Diversifying the Workforce Enhancing Sector Value Chain Reducing Threats I Increasing Market Size *_ Increasing Productivity 12 DESCRIPTION ACTIONS LEAD IMPLEMENTER Sustainable Ag/Value-Added Bioproducts for Closed-Loop Systems ► Add dedicated hire to revamp curriculum and strengthen Strengthen educational training,workforce development, collaborative networks to utilize and community outreach with the goal of adding new ag bioproducts ► Conduct applied demonstrations sources of value and revenue for farmers from their crops AM through value-added bio-products that create closed-loop, and community outreach,work CAFNRM A place-based economic systems and that strengthen with local farming/industrial sustainability for agriculturally based economies. communities ► Collaborate with Foodhub innovation center ► Host visiting researchers Extension Services for Livestock Industry in Hawaii County ► Livestock Wala'au podcast,hybrid workshops,field day and others introduce producers to programs Provide additional technical/logistics support for online related to finances,record CTAHR s s media and in-person programming. keeping,production management,animal health and husbandry Industry Workforce Pathways Development ► Industry funded professional assistantships for industry specific CTAHR �0� training and pathway toin employment Enhancing Business Acumen VIP Expanding/Diversifying the Workforce ZIA, Enhancing Sector Value Chain Reducing Threats k Increasing Market Size Increasing Productivity 13 DESCRIPTION ACTIONS LEAD IMPLEMENTER SHORT TERM[approximately 1-2 years] Innovative Agricultural Research ► Research focuses on indigenous crops that have been traditionally ignored in research compared to I ^• major crops.Focus on key bottlenecks in value chain, CTAHR product development, post- 0 harvest practices,marketing strategies,consumer acceptance, market viability,etc. Farmer Technical Assistance ► Hire extension agents to support coalition member goals,provide direct support for program implementation with emphasis ^, on"evergreen" material 'o, To support and expand extension services in Hawai'i ► Develop app-based tools— County,with an emphasis on supporting core components ecoinformatics for personalized CTAHR �.� forwarded by other coalition leads,such as agroforesty best practices for farmersilai scaling and training. ► Develop crop suitability map for 1000 crops ► Expand translation services for40k immigrant farmers ► Hire and train student assistants to develop ag support experience Enhancing Business Acumen 01� Expanding/Diversifying the Workforce ® Enhancing Sector Value Chain Reducing Threats [ Increasing Market Size 0 Increasing Productivity 14 DESCRIPTION ACTIONS LEAD IMPLEMENTER SHORT TERM[approximate Farmer Support Services ► Improve tissue culture services (expand existing sweet potato and ginger,ramp up resistant coffee and avocado,remove propagule bottlenecks for indigenous crops like breadfruit To provide direct services needed by the agricultural and'awa)and diagnostic services industry to overcome bottlenecks and improve (both field and laboratory CTAHR efficiency/profitability.Enhance abilities to make field diagnostics) assessments. ► Hire technicians,introduce new varieties into culture,obtain necessary equipment,distribute varieties ► Distribution of disease free plant varieties and disease/pest resistant varieties • 4 � Enhancing Business Acumen Val � Expanding/Diversifying the Workforce A Enhancing Sector Value Chain a _y Reducing Threats 4 Increasing Market Size Increasing Productivity 15 DESCRIPTION ACTIONS LEAD IMPLEMENTER SHORT TERM[approximately 1-2 years] Small Farmer and Agriculture Workforce Pathways Project ► Establish a satellite location. Expand dedicated on-island staffing to address technical assistance and educational needs of local farmers ► Support and strengthen the collaboration of the network of / ^0 Enhance Hawaii Island's food security and economy by *77 local technical assistance increasing the number of viable,sustainable commercial providers GoFarm farmers and its supporting workforce. ► Pilot an equipment library for0 program graduates ► Undertake an expansion feasibility study to assess needs, identify expansion partnership and sites and develop a long-term sustainability plan HCC Agriculture Facility ► Expand HCC learning lab capacity for the Agriculture and Forestry program to 17 acres at the CTAHR Conduct planning and roadway design work for future HCC Waiakea Research station and HCC �0� agriculture facility on CTAHR land. create a robust learning lab and OM double the capacity of Technical Sciences Certificates and Associate's degree. Enhancing Business Acumen OZ., Expanding/Diversifying the Workforce '.'r�+'�'rr`r Enhancing Sector Value Chain Reducing Threats Increasing Market Size Increasing Productivity 16 DESCRIPTION ACTIONS LEAD IMPLEMENTER SHORT TERM[approximately 1-2 years] Expand Agriculture Pathways Program ► Add another cohort of students through faculty and staff hiring (teaching faculty, Farm Manager/Lab Coordinator)and wrap around student support. ► Replace and upgrade Expansion of HCC capacity to accept students into the instructional equipment and tools Agriculture program to support employment growth within ► Curriculum design and delivery of HCC ��� the sector by training a skilled workforce. short-term training opportunities to support workforce development within the agricultural sector,including but not limited to food safety, meat cutting,controlled environment agriculture and food innovation. Enhancing Business Acumen ale' Expanding/Diversifying the Workforce ,, Enhancing Sector Value Chain S Reducing Threats Increasing Market Sizeiio t. Increasing Productivity 17 • DESCRIPTION ACTIONS LEAD IMPLEMENTER MID TERM [approximately 2-3 years] Expand existing Aquaculture Workforce Training Program ► Complete buildout of the PACRC Educational Center—install educational supplies,tools, equipment,and displays in the existing building ► Hire dedicated aquaculture trainer/workforce development program coordinator Expand existing Aquaculture Workforce Training Program ► Work with the Hilo aquaculture to increase employment opportunities,enable graduates cooperative to expand the Hilo HCC ��� to obtain better jobs,and enable business development. bay aquaculture farm for research,demonstration, mitigation,and possible commercial use ► Collaborate with Keaukaha community educators and loko i'a practitioners for education, fishpond renovation,and learning exchanges • • *!y* Enhancing Business Acumen maw Expanding/Diversifying the Workforce Enhancing Sector Value Chain ® Reducing Threats Increasing Market Size Increasing Productivity 18 DESCRIPTION ACTIONS LEAD IMPLEMENTER MID TERM [approximately 2-3 years] Expanding Agriculture Farm Technologies Capability ► Install power lines to all sectors of the farm, ► Install Solar panels to all sectors of the farm, • • Expand the ability of the 110-acre agriculture farm to ► Install Internet availability to all ��� operate agricultural education and outreach and workforce sectors of the farm, CAFNRM training by establishing internet,electrical,and solar ► Install electrical and solar power capabilities to all parts of the farm and structures. ,. to all existing structures at the farm, ► Install permanent GPS benchmark at the farm Enhancing water,energy efficiency and production capabilities of crops raised in greenhouses ► Install automatic systems and programmable irrigation systems, ► Develop automatic systems and sensors for temperature and light control for high value and Scale up and upgrade greenhouse facilities through specialty crops, automation of irrigation,fertigation,temperature and light ► Install nutrient film and non- CAFNRM controls. circulating hydroponics and 4410/ aeroponics using programmable and automatic systems, ► Hire a dedicated technician to oversee development of the areas. • • A Enhancing Business Acumen Mall Expanding/Diversifying the Workforce = Enhancing Sector Value Chain Reducing Threats Increasing Market Size - Increasing Productivity 19 LEAD r;, DESCRIPTION ACTIONS r IMPLEMENTER ,rt .. .vT ti MID TERM[approximately 2-3 years] Development of training areas at the UHH farm ► Clear and develop field areas for cropping with the use of computer simulation and technologies, ► Clear and develop areas for field cropping for biofuel and composting use on a larger scale, • • Develop underutilized areas of the farm developed for gio•si specific workforce and educational training in agriculture Clear and develop areas for with the simultaneous use of computer modeling and animal husbandry and CAFNRM management using computer simulation. modeling and simulation, 0 ► Clear and develop area for unmanned aircraft system flight training, ► Hire a dedicated technician to oversee development of the areas. V% Enhancing Business Acumen :�� Expanding/Diversifying the Workforce Enhancing Sector Value Chain ® Reducing Threats iff Increasing Market Size •�- Increasing Productivity 20 DESCRIPTION ACTIONS LEAD IMPLEMENTER LONG TERM[3 years and beyond] Expand UH Hilo Field Trial Network ► Expand UH Field Trial sites to provide a representative system I4♦ of operational field trial sites across a range of climate zones Support key extension programs in Hawaii County to and soil types0 increase the impact of CTAHR extension,and expand r Specialized business training for CAFNRM extension services and expertise specifically to support the sustainability,farm management, immediate goals of the coalition members. management of downstream01.5 processing and value-added products,and environmental and economic evaluations of ` ' sustainability and feasibility AgriBusiness,Value-Added Bio-Products for Closed-Loop Economies ► Add dedicated hire to revamp Add dedicated hire to revamp curriculum and focus on curriculum enhanced agribusiness acumen including the basics of ► Specialized business training for market development and maintenance,agricultural sustainability,farm management, , , finance,traceability including block chain, production management of downstream CAFNRM ,,!"► certification,cooperatives and block farming,agricultural processing and value-added products,and environmental and law and policy,etc. economic evaluations of sustainability and feasibility 8A Enhancing Business Acumen Vag Expanding/Diversifying the Workforce =, Enhancing Sector Value Chain Reducing Threats Increasing Market Size : Increasing Productivity 21 DESCRIPTION ACTIONS LEAD IMPLEMENTER LONG TERM[3 years and beyond] Expanded Applied Research and Demonstration Facility for Terrestrial and Marine Feedstocks for the Closed-Loop Bioeconomy ► Implement technology transfer and invite visiting scientists/researchers to work Expand the applied demonstration and training laboratory with staff and students to adapt with equipment to adapt and demonstrate biomass and and apply technologies to waste conversion technologies developed elsewhere biomass appropriate for Hawai'i CAFNRM6 (typically for temperate climate biomass and conditions)to Island. biomass availability and needs in Hawai'i. ► Engage students and working professionals to create opportunities for commercial deployment. Expanded Collaboration with the Food Hub Innovation Center Develop an eco-industrial park combining the programs and capabilities described above in a compelling ► Assist in the design and demonstration and evaluation of a place-based,integrated, implementation of a series of zero-waste"micro-economy"of complementary and enterprises that are structurally 0 integrated companies that maximize the economic value integrated for maximum and minimize the environmental impact of an agriculture- economic and environmental CAFNRM based system.An eco-industrial park centered around the impact and benefit.Output 0 proposed BBB Food Hub can be a capstone and enabling "waste"from one organization demonstration for the overall program,by validating becomes the input"resource"for approaches to regional and sustainable development and another. job creation. • • A Enhancing Business Acumen M�� Expanding/Diversifying the Workforce ;, Enhancing Sector Value Chain Reducing Threats Ir'' Increasing Market Size z Increasing Productivity 22 4. REFERENCES I Hawaii 2050 Sustainability Plan.(2008).Department of Agriculture Strategic Plan to Double Local Food Production and Increase Food Exports by 2030. https://hawai i2050.haws i i.gov/wp-Content/uploads/2021/07/FINAL-Haws ii-2050-Sustainability-Plan-web-tpdf 2 Aloha+Challenge.(2024).Local Food Production&Consumption.https://alohachallenge.hawaii.gov/pages/local-food-production-and-consumption Hawai'i Island BBBRC Grant Stakeholder Interview for Agriculture Sector Interests Q1 What is your role in Hawai'i Island's agricultural sector? (Check all that apply) Answered: 268 Skipped: 0 Farm Owner or Operator Plant Nursery Owner or... Orchard Owner or Operator Ranch Owner or Operator Aquaculture Business Own... Agricultural - Product... Nonprofit Organization... Government Agency Staff... Other(please specify) 0% 10% 20% 30% 4 0% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES Farm Owner or Operator 67.16% 180 Plant Nursery Owner or Operator 10.07% 27 Orchard Owner or Operator 20.52% 55 Ranch Owner or Operator 11.19% 30 Aquaculture Business Owner or Operator 2.24% 6 Agricultural Product Aggregator, Processor, or Distributor 13.43% 36 Nonprofit Organization Staff Member 12.31% 33 Government Agency Staff Member 2.99% 8 Other(please specify) 15.67% 42 Total Respondents: 268 1/ 16 Hawai'i Island BBBRC Grant Stakeholder Interview for Agriculture Sector Interests Q2 What are the most limiting factors to sustaining or growing your business? (Please choose no more than FIVE options) Answered: 268 Skipped: 0 Invasive Species Plant Diseases or Pests Food Safety Compliance Access to Markets Access to personnel wi... Infrastructure (e.g.roads,... Access to Labor/Talent Access to Effective... Access to Capital Access to Land Access to Post Harvest... Other(please specify) 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% 2 / 16 Hawai'i Island BBBRC Grant Stakeholder Interview for Agriculture Sector Interests ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES Invasive Species 39.18% 105 Plant Diseases or Pests 67.91% 182 Food Safety Compliance 13.43% 36 Access to Markets 22.39% 60 Access to personnel with agricultural business management skills&experience 17.16% 46 Infrastructure(e.g. roads, irrigation, power) 21.64% 58 Access to Labor/Talent 55.22% 148 Access to Effective Technologies 10.45% 28 Access to Capital 29.48% 79 Access to Land 18.28% 49 Access to Post Harvest Processing Facilities 25.00% 67 Other(please specify) 24.25% 65 Total Respondents: 268 3/ 16 Hawai'i Island BBBRC Grant Stakeholder Interview for Agriculture Sector Interests Q3 Which of the following UH programs related to agriculture have you interacted with over the past 5 — 10 years? (check all that apply) Answered: 268 Skipped: 0 UH Manoa College of... UH Hilo College of... Hawai'i Community... Pacific Aquaculture Big Island Invasive... GoFarm 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES UH Manoa College of Tropical Agriculture& Human Resources (CTAHR) Extension Services 79.85% 214 UH Hilo College of Agriculture, Forestry, and Natural Resource Management(CAFNRM) 25.75% 69 Hawai'i Community College Agriculture Program 13.06% 35 Pacific Aquaculture&Coastal Resource Center(PACRC) 6.34% 17 Big Island Invasive Species Committee(BIISC) 33.58% 90 GoFarm 22.01% 59 Total Respondents: 268 4/ 16 Hawaii Island BBBRC Grant Stakeholder Interview for Agriculture Sector Interests Q4 How familiar would you say you are with the following UH roles and services? Answered: 268 Skipped: 0 ■ UH Manoa CTA H R's... I UHH CAFNRM's Research... UH Manoa CTAHR's... I UH Manoa and UHH CAFNRM's... 5 / 16 Hawai'i Island BBBRC Grant Stakeholder Interview for Agriculture Sector Interests Hawai'i Community... Hawai'i Community... 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% •Very Familiar •Somewhat... Uncertain Somewhat... Not at all F... 6/16 Hawai'i Island BBBRC Grant Stakeholder Interview for Agriculture Sector Interests VERY SOMEWHAT UNCERTAIN SOMEWHAT NOT AT TOTAL WEIGHTED FAMILIAR FAMILIAR UNFAMILIAR ALL AVERAGE FAMILIAR UH Manoa CTAHR's Research 20.68% 48.87% 9.40% 7.14% 13.91% Programs 55 130 25 19 37 266 2.45 UHH CAFNRM's Research 1.96% 16.08% 19.61% 17.25% 45.10% Programs 5 41 50 44 115 255 3.87 UH Manoa CTAHR's 35.34% 39.10% 8.65% 5.26% 11.65% Agricultural Extension Services 94 104 23 14 31 266 2.19 UH Manoa and UHH 5.04% 20.54% 11.24% 12.79% 50.39% CAFNRM's 4-Year Agricultural 13 53 29 33 130 258 3.83 Degree Programs Hawai'i Community College's 2- 6.13% 14.56% 13.03% 14.18% 52.11% Year Agricultural Production 16 38 34 37 136 261 3.92 Program Hawai'i Community College's 4.23% 15.38% 13.08% 13.85% 53.46% Agricultural Certificate 11 40 34 36 139 260 3.97 Programs 7/ 16 Hawai'i Island BBBRC Grant Stakeholder Interview for Agriculture Sector Interests Q8 To what extent would improvements to each of the following UH activities help address the challenges faced by your business? Answered: 268 Skipped: 0 Producing more graduates wi... Producing more graduates wi... Expanding current... Developing new forms of... Research and 11/ 16 Hawai'i Island BBBRC Grant Stakeholder Interview for Agriculture Sector Interests training on... I Research and training on... Research and training on... Better online information... Offering more certificate... Helping arrange on-f... 12/ 16 Hawai'i Island BBBRC Grant Stakeholder Interview for Agriculture Sector Interests tgt 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% • It would hel... 0 It would so... It probably... IfP Unsure/No... IT WOULD IT WOULD IT PROBABLY UNSURE/NO TOTAL WEIGHTED HELP SOMEWHAT WOULDN'T MAKE A OPINION AVERAGE GREATLY HELP DIFFERENCE Producing more graduates 22.05% 35.04% 20.08% 22.83% with 2-year agriculture 56 89 51 58 254 2.56 degrees Producing more graduates 21.60% 36.00% 20.80% 21.60% with 4-year agriculture 54 90 52 54 250 2.58 degrees Expanding current extension 65.65% 25.95% 3.05% 5.34% services 172 68 8 14 262 3.52 Developing new forms of 60.69% 29.01% 2.29% 8.02% extension services 159 76 6 21 262 3.42 Research and training on 75.86% 18.39% 3.07% 2.68% local agriculture pests& 198 48 8 7 261 3.67 diseases Research and training on 69.58% 20.53% 6.46% 3.42% control of invasive species 183 54 17 9 263 3.56 Research and training on the 49.21% 34.65% 10.63% 5.51% business aspects of 125 88 27 14 254 3.28 agriculture Better online information and 60.00% 31.92% 4.62% 3.46% tools to help local farmers 156 83 12 9 260 3.48 Offering more certificate 18.88% 36.14% 22.89% 22.09% programs 47 90 57 55 249 2.52 Helping arrange on-farm 53.70% 28.79% 8.56% 8.95% apprenticeships 138 74 22 23 257 3.27 13/ 16 • Hawaii Island BBBRC Grant Stakeholder Interview for Agriculture Sector Interests Q9 Generally speaking, how difficult is it for your business to attract and retain the types of skilled labor and talent needed to succeed? Answered: 268 Skipped: 0 Extremely Difficult Difficult Not Difficult Unsure/No Opinion 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES Extremely Difficult 30.60% 82 Difficult 45.52% 122 Not Difficult 6.34% 17 Unsure/No Opinion 17.54% 47 Total Respondents: 268 14/ 16