HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0212.098 1996-1998 April 24, 1997
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To: Members of Hawaii County Council:
From: David T. Ikeda ~ ~ ()'(~~~~23 P~ 3 ~5
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I am an agriculture instructor at Hawaii Commtpi~j~~lfe~, letter
presents my views as a private citizen. (support apost-harvest handling facility,
including irradiation, being built in east Hawaii or any marketing effort which would
promote diversified agriculture.
The recent closure of three sugar plantations and subsequent loss of jobs from
those plantations and related industries has placed Hawaii County, and especially
east Hawaii, in a poor economic situation. The effect of these losses appears to be a
deterioration of our economy.
Diversified agriculture has been looked upon as a remedy for some of these
economic woes. Unfortunately, diversified agriculture cannot exist solely on the sales
found on the island of Hawaii or even the State of Hawaii. With a population of slightly
over one-million people, the ability of our local populace to consume our total potential
production is not probable. In addition, the growth of diversified agriculture in central
Oahu places Oahu farmers is a far more advantageous marketing position than
farmers in east Hawaii. Our ability to export out-of-state will ultimately determine the
future of diversified agriculture on the island of Hawaii.
If markets are opened, new and established farmers can start targeting crops
and cultural practices specifically for export. Tropical fruits are often mentioned, but
the export of vegetables and, perhaps, even ornamentals may also become a reality.
This will create a more stable economy truly based on diversified agriculture.
The concerns about the effects of irradiated foods may or may not be real, but I
have my questions about these concerns. The information I heard presented by
individuals and organizations opposing irradiation appear to be based on dated or
irrelevant reports.
The number of chemicals available to treat our products is decreasing. As our
options for treatment decrease, irradiation presents a means of treatment which may
be kinder to the environment, safer for the farmer and the consumer in general, and ,
perhaps, more economical.
I ask that you support apost-harvest handling facility or any marketing effort
which would promote diversified agriculture.
yL
Thank you for your attention. ~mm' ~O'
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Presented
Ref. To• L"
uEr. Date_ APR 9 ~ taa~