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Senate AEN committee confirms Michael Faye to Board of Agriculture and Biosecurity; highlights irrigation and freight challenges
Summary
The Senate AEN Committee voted to advise and consent to Michael Faye’s nomination to the Board of Agriculture and Biosecurity after testimony emphasizing his knowledge of Kauai irrigation systems, concerns about needed ditch repairs, island freight costs and biosecurity.
Michael Faye was advised and consented by the Senate AEN Committee on March 4, 2026, to serve on the Board of Agriculture and Biosecurity (term to 06/30/2030).
Sharon Hurd and industry witnesses described Faye as having encyclopedic knowledge of Kauai’s water systems and a life of service to Kauai agriculture; the Hawaii Farm Bureau also offered strong support. Faye described priorities including upgrading irrigation infrastructure, preserving farmland, reducing freight costs for neighbor-island farmers and encouraging agritourism and cooperative freight solutions to improve farm viability.
During questioning, members referenced a briefing estimate that it may take roughly $150 million to address statewide ditch-system needs. Faye cautioned that money should reach “actual shovels in the ground” rather than paying for excessive administrative studies and suggested using local experts and cooperative organizations to make dollars go further. On biosecurity, he recommended improved outreach and targeted measures at ports and freight nodes.
The committee adopted the chair’s recommendation to advise and consent; the nomination proceeds as recommended.
