Hawaii Island New Farmer Expo Held on Saturday, June 17
Posted on Jun 14, 2017 in AgriLogic Consulting, DBEDT, Enterprise Zones, News, Pacific Gateway Center, The Kohala Center, USDA
The Hawaii Island New Farmer Expo will be held on Saturday, June 17 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. This all-day event will take place at the Gates Performing Arts Center at Hawaii Preparatory Academy in Waimea. We are excited to announce our Keynote Speaker, John Caverly, better known as Ginger John, owner of Onomea Farm and Sweet Cane Cafe who has farmed organically on Hawaii Island for more than 40 years, almost 10 years of which have included the Korean Natural Farming method.
The New Farmer Expo will bring together emerging and experienced farmers with non-profit, private, and government resource organizations. The Expo will provide participants with an understanding of the challenges and prospects of establishing a viable farm business on Hawaii Island, including a pragmatic, step-by-step overview on how to get started.
Hear from successful Hawaii Island farmers including Wes Mclaughlin (Three Keiki Farm), Eric Batha (Big Island Produce, known for their Keiki Cukes), Kyle Studer (Southside Farming Company), and others.
Learn what local produce buyers are looking for from David Abrahams (Redwater Cafe), Mike Bennett (Pau Restaurant), and more.
Find out what becoming certified organic requires from George Bower (Strictly Organics) and Melanie Bondera (Kanalani Ohana Farm). George has provided third-party inspection services for 13 years and Melanie owns a USDA-certified organic farm in Kailua-Kona.
Community and resource groups such as The Kohala Center, Pacific Gateway Center, AgriLogic Consulting, Farm Credit Services, Hamakua Agricultural Cooperative, Kamehameha Schools, Hawaii Small Business Development Center, United States Department of Agriculture Farm Service Agency, Natural Resources Conservation Service, Hawaii Department of Agriculture, University of Hawaii College or Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources, and FarmWorks Hawaii will be on hand to discuss programs they offer to assist new and beginning farmers, as well as to answer your questions.
Morning sessions offer panel discussions, Q&A with experienced farmers, and brief talks by island organizations on land acquisition, financing, training programs, crop choice, production methods, business planning, risk management, value-added products, branding, and marketing. Afternoon sessions include films, information booths, one-on-one sessions, and workshops.
This event is open to the public. Those who are serious about pursuing farm careers on Hawaii Island are encouraged to attend. Admission is $25 and includes access to all events, a light breakfast, coffee service, and lunch catered by Red Water Cafe. Advance registration is required by June 13, 2017.
For information or to register, visit farmerexpo.eventbrite.com or contact The Kohala Center at 808-887-6411.
The Hawaii Island New Farmer Expo is presented by: