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HomeMy WebLinkAboutAgriculture Station-SpeakOut BoardsAgriculture Resource Preservation Objective 2: Protect and restore viable agricultural lands and resources ... limiting rural sprawl. CURRENT TOOLS Development on agricultural land limited to agriculture, farm dwellings, and related economic infrastructure. Development targeted to existing zoned urban areas to discourage sprawl on agricultural lands. Nonconforming uses on agricultural lands regulated. Important Agricultural Lands protections. Soil & Water Conservation Districts provide support. Provisions allow farmers to live/work on land. Farm subdivisions create smaller farms without residential development. CHALLENGES Some agricultural areas designated for town extension. County not actively involved in watershed planning. Rain runoff from agricultural areas impacts streams/coast. Impacts from invasive species and crop diseases. Limited land tenure for farmers. Inconsistent enforcement of additional farm dwelling agreements. Agriculture Focused Economy Objective 2: Enhance and promote local and sustainable agriculture, farming, ranching, renewable energy, and related economic support systems. Objective 13: Promote appropriate rural tourism that welcomes guests for an alternative visitor experience. Promote Hawaii's host culture and Hamakua's heritage, including heritage roads and plantation towns, and festivals that celebrate our rich multi -cultural music, art, and agriculture. CURRENT TOOLS County agricultural capacity improvements prioritized in County Agriculture Development Plan. County and agriculture industry focus on increased food security and self- sufficiency. CHALLENGES Limited County capacity to manage/promote agriculture. Tax policies for ag land do not necessarily incentivize highest/best use for ag. Limited farm labor force and high input costs. Impacts from invasive species and crop diseases. Limited land tenure for farmers. Limited farmer networks hamper collective marketing strategies. WHAT THE CDP WOULD DO 10