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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0204.001 2024-2026April 15, 2025 Aloha Commissioners: My name is Janet Britt, and I am speaking in favor of the proposed agricultural easement on the Baber's 20-acre Nani Kai Hoku Farm in North Kohala. I have worked in conservation for over 40 years, and I know that perpetual agricultural easements are vital tools to conserve irreplaceable farmlands. Protection of small farms has never been more critical than now, when prime farmlands are being converted to residential development every day. In 1936, President Franklin Roosevelt recognized the importance of the soil in which our country grows it food. He said, "The history of every nation is written in the way in which it cares for its soil." This easement will ensure continued agricultural production as well as conserving resources that we hold dear, such as healthy soil, protecting water resources, and providing diverse habitat for the flora and fauna on which the cycle of life depends. The Babers are well-known statewide for their regenerative farming methods which benefit crop resiliency, increase nutrient levels in foods, and use innovative farming methods that adapt to changes in rainfall, temperature, and natural cycles. They freely share their hard-won knowledge with farming communities around the state, mentoring farmers young and older. Mahalo for your consideration of this vitally important addition to the conserved agricultural farmlands on our Island. Coe.NQ. 104, 1 Ref. To: Ref. Daia