Two words have been on my mind a lot lately. If you live in Hawaiʻi, you probably know these words well: FOOD SECURITY.
Any mention of the term is almost always followed by this no-so-fun-fact: Hawaiʻi imports around 90 percent of its food. In other words, we’re pretty darn vulnerable if a natural disaster or other global event should prevent our food supply from reaching these islands.
The good news is that there are plenty of smart and passionate folks in our communities who are working to reverse the trend. One example is the Hawaiʻi Farmers Union United, who is holding its annual statewide convention right here on Maui this weekend, Friday, Nov. 13 to Sunday, Nov. 15 at Maui Tropical Plantation in Waikapū.
They’ve planned a jam-packed lineup of activities and speakers, and are inviting the community to join in. Check out the event flyer below!
I should note that a lot of folks think that this organization is just for farmers, however a majority of the members are your typical backyard-style gardeners/farmers who simply care about food security and local agriculture.
Here’s some info, in case you’re not familiar with the organization:
What is the Hawaii Farmers Union United? HFUU is affiliated with the National Farmers Union, and is recognized as a voice for our local farmers, ranchers, and fishermen. Comprised of several community chapters throughout Hawaii, the organization empowers its members to earn and prosperous living through regenerative stewardship practices.
What do we stand for? We believe that a multitude of smallholder diversified family farms that implement regenerative food production techniques will create a resilient, vital, and productive agricultural system to better feed Hawaii’s people.
Why join us? You don’t have to be a farmer to support Hawaii Farmers Union United. Backyard gardeners, curious community members, and anyone who is concerned about where our food comes from are welcome. Commune with others who are working to improve Hawaii’s food sustainability, and become part of the movement to grow more food locally.
Attendees do not need to be HFUU members. Registration is available at hfuuhi.org.
