HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0212.121 1996-1998 To Whom It May Concern:
I am opposed to public funding of a food irradiation facility on this island. Firstly, I
am concerned about the long term human health effects. It seems that this procedure has
been tested sufficiently, yet I can recall many times in our recent agricultural history
when severe health effects were discovered many years too late. Is the potential risk to
human health worth it?
I have a long term lease on 60 acres of ag land. I am currently developing this land
as an organic diversified fruit orchard. I am aware that part of Hawaii's trade deficit
results in large food imports. I plan to grow wholesome food on Hawaii for Hawaiians.
1 could make a few hundred thousand dollars per year with this size parcel operating a
commercial export orchard. I am not interested. I am looking for long term solutions to
our economic problems. I care about the health of the soil and the health of myself and
the people 1 sell my fruit to.
I believe that there are many other more far-sighted ways to improve our local
economy. If the state of Hawaii were to invest a few million dollars into research and
development of organic farming practices, for example, the long term results would be
healthier soil, healthier people, and a healthier economy. I invite you to consider the
benefits of using nitrogen fixing trees and ground covers along with grazing animals to
improve the soil. This process results in less expense in importing pesticides, nitrogen
additives, herbicides, and gasoline to control weeds.
There are many, many ways that Hawaii can improve its balance of trade through
agriculture, or through other methods. This food irradiation idea is not entirely faulty.
1 understand the logic of wanting to utilize Hawaii's enormous agricultural potential.
Yet, it seems that there may be other much more attractive alternatives available.
Again, 1 want to see our government using resources to create long term solutions.
Let us step back and ask the big questions: What do Hawaiians really need for our long
term well being`? What can we~ do right now to maximize our well being 50 or 100
years from now? We are not desperate; we can afford to make careful and wise
decisions.
Thank you for your time.
Scott Middlekauff
ph# 965-6069
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