Beginning Farmer Conference

UH Molokai Extension Office News Release

Calling all farmers! The Molokai Native Hawaiian Beginning Farmer Program will host a Farm Conference on July 26 and 27. The conference is open to all farmers regardless of their experience. We will have something new for everyone. The conference is also a part of the Hawaiian Home Lands Agriculture Extension Program, and all homestead farmers are encouraged to attend.

The conference will kick-off on July 26 at the Maui College, Molokai Campus in Kaunakakai, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. July 27’s events will be held at the UH CTAHR Molokai Applied Research and Demonstration Farm, also referred to as MCC Farm, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. The farm is located just past Kumu Farms.

On July 26 we will hear about one of the hottest topics on the farm right now: Food Safety on the Farm. Discussions will include disease management strategies, integrated pest management, advances in nematode control using Sunn Hemp, and new sprayer technologies– the latest in sprayer and nozzle technology.

On July 27, we will hit the field to see the latest in innovations using Sunn Hemp as a Green Manure Crop. Also planned is a demonstration using the New Sprayer Technologies discussed during the presentation the day before, as well a Walk Behind Tiller demonstration. University of Hawaii researchers, specialists, and county agents from across the state make up the list of speakers.

Don’t miss this great educational opportunity! And if you see a farmer, thank them! Without our farmers, where would our food come from?

Pre-registration is required by July 16 with the Extension Office, located next to the Ho`olehua Post Office at 69-1 Puupeelua Ave. There is no cost for the conference. Lunch is on your own (you are welcome to bring your lunch) or you may order lunch at the time of pre-registration. The cost for lunch is $10 for one day or $20 for both days and is due by July 16. For more information call 567-6929 or 567-6935.

This project is supported by a grant from the Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program of the National Institute of Food and Agriculture, USDA.