Hilo County grants $25000 to support GoFarm Hawaii's agricultural training program

In a recent meeting of the Hawaii County Governmental Operations and External Affairs Committee, officials discussed a significant funding resolution aimed at supporting local agriculture through the GoFarm program. The committee approved a $25,000 impact grant to GoFarm, a program designed to train beginning farmers in Hawaii. This funding is crucial as it will help supplement the program, which is primarily funded through external sources and has a competitive application process.

GoFarm provides a comprehensive training experience for aspiring farmers, starting with classroom instruction, followed by hands-on technical skills training, and culminating in lessons on running a profitable small agricultural business. The program has successfully trained over 250 farmers since its inception in 2012, but due to limited capacity, only 20 participants are accepted each year. This year, GoFarm received over 60 applications, highlighting the demand for agricultural education in the region.

During the meeting, committee members expressed their support for the program and emphasized the importance of tracking the success of its graduates. Questions were raised about the barriers new farmers face, such as securing land and accessing necessary equipment. The program aims to connect participants with land suitable for their farming ambitions, which is a critical resource for their success.

Council members also discussed the need for more detailed data on the program's impact, including how much of the produce from trained farmers is reaching local communities. This information is vital for understanding the program's effectiveness in enhancing food security in Hawaii.

As the committee moves forward, there is a clear commitment to supporting local agriculture and ensuring that new farmers have the tools and resources they need to thrive. The funding for GoFarm represents a step towards fostering a sustainable agricultural community in Hawaii County, addressing both economic and food security concerns for residents.