Locally-grown microgreens, freshly pounded poi – and even steak – samples were showcased today at Agriculture Day at the Hawaiʻi State Capitol.
Exhibitors ranged from businesses to government agencies, The University of Hawaiʻi System and other organizations, which displayed educational materials and passed out product samples to attendees. From 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., the fourth floor of the Capitol building was bustling.
Legislators supporting the event included Rep. Kirstin Kahaloa, Rep. Matthias Kusch, Sen. Mike Gabbard and Sen. Tim Richards.
The annual event presented by Hawai‘i Farm Bureau, a statewide organization consisting of approximately 2,000 members, aims to inform state legislators and the local community about the importance of this industry in the state.
As part of Ulupono Initiativeʻs Local Food Coalition, Hawai‘i Farm Bureau is backing several bills moving forward this legislative session that “aim to grow Hawai‘i’s local food system.” This hui is comprised of farmers, ranchers and landowners, among other ag operators and stakeholders.
“These pro-agriculture measures strengthen Hawai‘i’s food system through targeted investments in agricultural infrastructure, grant support for farmers and ranchers, innovation in value-added products and sustainable funding mechanisms for food security initiatives,” said Brian Miyamoto, executive director of Hawai‘i Farm Bureau, in a statement. “The broad support these measures have received from our coalition partners shows just how vital they are to advancing local food production and security.”
Board members of Kauaʻi County Farm Bureau Tai-li Medeiros and James Robinson headed their booth filled with produce donated by Garden Isle farmers.
“I love networking and bringing farmers together,” Medeiros told Aloha State Daily. “Our job is to give our members, particularly the smaller farms, opportunities for grants and other resources.
She added, membership has been declining recently due to staff cuts and other operational challenges.
The state Department of Agriculture's budget for fiscal year 2025 is more than $56 million. It employs more than 250 staff members.
Kelsey Kukaua Medeiros can be reached at kelsey@alohastatedaily.com.
