Local prduce designated as “Fine and Fresh”

Thanks to a new marketing program residents and visitors will soon find it much easier to buy local when shopping for fresh produce. A new triangular green “Fine and Fresh” logo will identify fruits, vegetables, flowers and other farm products that are grown here on Molokai or on Maui.

The program, developed by Maui County, Molokai Chamber of Commerce, Molokai Farm Bureau and other local partnerships, is not only designed to help consumers, it also acknowledges retailers who buy, sell and promote local growers. Most importantly, the program is aimed at increasing sales and developing new markets for local farmers.

“We are delighted this is a countywide program that can make a difference to our economy on Molokai,” said Barbara Haliniak, President of the Molokai Chamber of Commerce. “We’re looking forward to gaining more exposure for the products we grow on Molokai both for our local population and for sale on the other islands.”

Besides a campaign of signs, banners, and logo usage, a new, continuously maintained web site, www.mauicountyfinefresh.net, has been created to be used as a major information source by the community, visitors, food stores, farmers markets and restaurants. The site features a farm product source guide that lists farmers, the produce they grow and seasons when the various crops will be available. A group of nearly 20 farmers from Maui and Molokai already appear on the site.

All farmers in Maui County are eligible to sign up for free for the Fine and Fresh program by filling out the “how guide” on the web site at mauicountyfinefresh.net or by calling 808-270-7203. Food stores and restaurants interested in participating should call the same number.