‘Feeding the Future’ forum an open call to action

HONOLULU—Farmers, community leaders, and individuals have pointed to the fact that over 85 percent of Hawaii’s food imported.

The impact of that statistic is compounded by current trends that include: the rezoning of agricultural land for non-ag developments, obstacles impeding the success of Hawaii’s small farmers, and a lack of political action to secure the resources needed for sustainable agriculture.

The Hawaii Farmers Union says that if current trends continue, Hawaii’s last agricultural lands will be gone by 2040.

What does the future hold for our state? What can Hawaii residents do to change these trends?

To catch up on The Hawaii Independent‘s food and agriculture coverage, click here

This Sunday, The Hawaii Independent will conclude its Food Focus month with “Feeding the Future,” a panel discussion on the future of our local food system. The event will be held on June 26, from noon to 3:00 p.m. at Fresh Cafe in Kakaako.

The discussion will revolve around three panels representing key figures in Hawaii’s food system. Panelists include Koa Kaulukukui, an environment attorney; Hector Valenzula, a vegetable crops extension specialist with CTHAR; Jan Renee Yoshioka, Kakoo Oiwi; Myrone Murakami, Hawaii Farm Bureau; restaurateurs Lindsay Ozawa of Melt and Mork Noguchi of Heeia Pier; Mahina Paishon, Halau Ku Mana; Shelley Muneoka, KAHEA; and Gaye Chan, University of Hawaii.

Panelists will discuss the challenges and opportunities facing local farms, the next generation of local restauranteurs, and specific calls to action to Hawaii’s people.

“Feeding the Future” is sponsored by Yelp.com, Whole Foods, and The Hawaii Independent

If you can’t be there, follow the hashtag #foodHI on Twitter for live coverage. Also, please take part in the online discussion.

Feeding the Future
June 26 from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Fresh Café
831 Queen St.