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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0208.003 2024-2026I^� P /Counci l Re), t21-2S COMM.208 i OY.ty De yl UNIVERSITY r w College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resilience • of HA'vVAI I Founding College of the University of Hawaii Office of the Dean and Director for Research and Cooperative Extension MANOA n Testimony Presented Before the o cp County Council County of Hawaii May 7, 2025 at 9:00 a.m. By Parwinder Grewal, Dean College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resilience CD Res. 121-25: AUTHORIZES THE MAYOR TO ENTER INTO AN AGREEMENT WITH THE UNIVERSITY OF HAWAII OFFICE OF RESEARCH SERVICES Chair Inaba, Vice Chair Onishi and Members of the County Council: Thank you for the opportunity to provide testimony in support of Resolution No. 121-25 authorizing the Mayor to enter into an agreement with the University of Hawaii Office of Research Services (ORS)with funds of$25,000 from the Department of Research and Development to conduct GoFarm Hawaii, the university's comprehensive agricultural education program. The College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resilience (CTAHR) supports this resolution. The vision of CTAHR is an educated community, healthy population, and sustainable food system and environment that strengthens the well-being and economic development of the people of Hawaii. In 2022, the agricultural producers of the County were surveyed by the Department of Research and Development as part of the US EDA Build Back Better Regional Challenge grant- Phase 1 about their needs to increase and improve their production and businesses. Support for funding Resolution 121-25 will assist the County with the following objectives: 1. Strategic Investment in Agricultural Workforce: The requested $25,000 from the Impact Grant will directly support critical components of the GoFarm Hawai'i Beginning Farmer Training Program in Hilo. This investment ensures the successful delivery of high-quality, hands-on agricultural education and practical business training, critical for nurturing the next generation of farmers. 2. Economic Revitalization and Job Creation: The program addresses pressing economic challenges by creating jobs and stimulating local business growth. By funding this training initiative, the County helps new farmers establish economically viable agricultural enterprises, expanding local markets, and increasing profitability within the agricultural sector. 3. Enhanced Food Security: With a 14% decline in local farms from 2017 to 2022,this project directly tackles the plo 3050 Maile Way,Gilmore Hall 202 Honolulu,Hawaii 96822 �•�'' Phone:(808)956-4141 E-mail:ctahrdn@hawaii.edu — •�_ www.ctahr.hawaii.edu An Equal Opportunity Institution E O 0 Hawaii County Council Res. 121-25 May 7,,2025 Page 2 critical issue of declining local food production. Funds will empower participants to learn and implement productive, sustainable agricultural practices, ensuring a resilient local food supply and greater food security for residents across Hawaii Island. 4. Addressing the Aging Farmer Demographic: Currently, 48% of Hawaii County farmers are over 65, with only 6%younger than 35. By allocating grant funds toward targeted training and mentorship, the County actively supports initiatives designed to attract younger individuals and beginning farmers, fostering long-term sustainability and rejuvenating Hawaii County's agricultural workforce. 5. A Demonstrated Track Record of Success and Environmental Sustainability: The requested funds will build on GoFarm Hawai'i's established success in training effective agricultural entrepreneurs, as evidenced by 92% of recent program graduates successfully securing employment or launching their own farm enterprises and employment in the food system. Additionally, the funds will support continued training in eco-friendly and climate-resilient agricultural practices—such as soil conservation, crop diversification, and sustainable pest management—that have proven effective in enhancing productivity, reducing environmental impacts, and promoting long-term sustainability of agriculture on Hawaii Island. These objectives align closely with Hawaii County's goals for economic resilience, community well-being, and environmental stewardship. We support Resolution 121-25 and thank you for the opportunity to provide testimony.