Access to land remains one of the biggest barriers to growing more food on Kaua‘i.
Rising operating costs, invasive species and limited infrastructure contribute to a steady decline in local fruit production that began several years ago. Many beginning farmers at the same time are face short-term, high-cost leases, making it difficult to justify long-term investment orchard crops require.
Mālama Kaua‘i is working at Olohena to change that.
“Through the new agricultural park, we are creating a different model, offering affordable, long-term access to land so farmers can confidently plant fruit trees and invest in the future,” said Mālama Kaua‘i Executive Director Megan Fox in a recent newsletter. “It’s a critical step toward rebuilding our island’s food systems.”
But for that vision to fully root, one essential resource is necessary: water.
Simply put: no water, no food.
Mālama Kaua‘i is now fundraising to build a well for the ag park — an about $1 million investment that will provide long-term water self-reliance.
The well represents more than infrastructure, however; “it’s a commitment to water sovereignty, food security and a more resilient Kaua‘i in a space where small and beginning farmers can thrive,” Fox said.
Meaningful progress has been made at the 87-acre ag park.
It now includes fencing, roads, a nursery shade house and basic water catchment. Farmers are beginning to plan, plant and dream.
But unlocking the next phase depends on securing a water source.
“We can’t do this alone,” Fox said. “If you believe in a future where Kaua‘i feeds itself, we invite you to be part of this effort. Your support, at any level, helps us move closer to making this vision a reality.”
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Meet the first 3 Olohena ‘ĀINA Center farmers
The first three farmers have joined the Olohena ‘ĀINA Center.
“We’re thrilled to have partnered with these incredible expanding businesses to work together to increase local food production,” Fox said.
Waialeale Kava Source
Naoshi Grady, formerly a Mahi ‘ai technical assistance program coordinator with Mālama Kaua‘i, is expanding his successful ‘awa business with his new farm.
Grady has imported Kava Powder from Fiji, Vanuatu and the Solomon Islands for almost 20 years. His strong Native Hawaiian-owned brand now is already selling into various health food stores on Kaua’i, O‘ahu and Maui.
Cultivating Kaua’i ‘awa has been a goal of his for many years, and this farm will help elevate his business while supporting local agriculture.
Aloha Ola
Aloha Ola Farms is a second-generation, family-owned farm rooted in the belief that healthy food begins with healthy soil.
When owners Brianna and Corey Ansley started farming, their mission was simple: grow the highest-quality, nutrient-rich food for their children. Aloha Ola has been a long-time vendor with the Mālama Kaua‘i food hub and have a farm stand where they sell their products near Anaina Hou in Kīlauea.
They will expand their fruit production at the ag park with more pineapple, lilikoi and papaya to meet their already existing demand.
Mahina O Kailani
Heather and Pono Nero are expanding their family farm from their productive backyard to the professional realm as soon as school is out (Pono Nero is a kumu at Kanuikapono).
Mahina O Kailani, a Mālama Kaua‘i vendor, is a Native Hawaiian-owned business growing and selling diverse products, including produce from more than 40 different fruit trees.
The Neros have a combined 20 years of experience with small-scale farming and permaculture. They also work with their kids to help operate their family farm, where everyone shares in the kuleana of keeping the operations going.
Are you Interested in a lease at the ag park?
Fill out an interest form online.
Note: Because of a lack of irrigation, the land is best-suited for those with lesser water needs, such as beekeepers and orchard projects. But Mālama Kaua‘i is happy to take your info now if you’re interested in joining at a later phase once water is available for more intensive production types.
“We have many applicants in process, so don’t wait if you’re interested,” Fox said.
Equipment share program launch
Mālama Kaua‘i has been able to start an equipment share program at the ag park, with support from Kaua‘i County Office of Economic Development.
This farmer-led, cooperative-style equipment share is kicking off with an equipment storage container and zero-turn mower to help farmers maintain their leased lands without individually purchasing equipment, with more to come soon.
“Equipment sharing models that lower startups costs for smaller farms have been ongoing topics of interest throughout our farmer support work, surveys and meetings,” Fox said, “so we’re especially excited to see this new opportunity come online.”
Join Mālama Kaua‘i for a work day
Container Painting Party
- 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday, April 19
- Two containers onsite need to be rust-proofed and base painted, and some hands to help would be appreciated. Supplies will be provided, but feel free to bring a brush or roller — the more the merrier.
Cinco de Māla: Tree Planting
- 3 to 6 p.m. Tuesday, May 5
- Come help with another large fruit tree planting at the ag park. There are more than 88 trees that will be ready to go in the ground.
What to bring: Full reusable water bottle, hat, sun/bug protection, closed-toe shoes.
Where to go: 1.4 miles up mauka from Kapa‘a Middle School on Olohena Road; just stay to the left and the ag park will be on your left with a sign by the gate.
“If you haven’t visited yet, we’d love to welcome you to Olohena,” Fox said. “Come see what’s growing and be part of what’s ahead!”
