Farming convention to feature agriculture experts, Maui farm tours

The Hawaii Farmers Union United will host its 11th annual convention from Dec. 9 to 12 with an array of virtual events, including Hawaii farm tours and in-depth discussions with nationally renowned experts in agriculture.

“We invite anyone who values local regenerative food systems, including farmers, gardeners and foodies, to register for this popular annual event,” said Vincent Mina, the organization’s president and a Maui farmer. “This year we have expanded the convention to include pre-convention breakout discussions on soil health, hemp and mushrooms.”

Highlights will include breakfast sessions with expert presenters Ray Archuleta, featured on the Netflix documentary “Kiss the Ground”; Dan Kittredge, developer of the open-source bio-nutrient food meter; and Christopher Nesbitt, agroforestry expert from Belize. Sessions will be presented from the Hale Akua Retreat Center on Maui.

The convention will also include afternoon farm demonstration videos. Farms to be showcased include Maui Bees in Kula, Kahanu Aina Greens in Wailuku, Hoku Nui Farm in Makawao and Lapa‘au Farm in Olinda. Sessions will feature the Hawaii Farmers Union United’s statewide soil health initiative at Hawaii Taro Farm and Mahi Pono, as well as a live question-and-answer session with the farmers and 13 chapter presidents.

The final day of the convention will include meetings with leadership on organization policy, business and awards, with the election of the 2022 vice president. All speakers, farmers and organizers will follow federal, state and local COVID-19 health and safety measures, the organization said.

The convention is accessible by donation at hfuu.org.