The end of plantation agriculture and shift to an economy highly-dependent on tourism has given rise to many food-security and sustainability challenges on Kaua`i. Although the need for food is steadily increasing with the growth in resident and visitor populations, there has been a simultaneous decrease in production. Despite some ideal growing conditions, Kaua`i is heavily dependent on imports, receiving 85% of its food from out-of-state. Given the rising price of oil and growing possibility of natural disasters influenced by climate change, Kaua`i is in a precarious food situation.

Agricultural lands on Kaua`i are amongst the highest priced in the nation. Market demand is driven by those interested in the residential value of land, and bona fide farmers are priced out. In addition, cheaper labor markets in developing countries with similar tropical climates makes it difficult for farmers to compete on a global scale. Beyond economic challenges, with the demise of sugar, agricultural infrastructure such as water sources, reservoirs, roads and ditches have deteriorated.

The growing and testing of GMO’s and the heavy use of pesticides and chemicals threaten the health of people and the `aina and compromise future generation’s ability to sustain themselves. Pesticides are known to contaminate water, soil and animal populations, and have been proven to cause adverse chronic health effects.

In spite of these challenges, there many ways consumers can support the evolution to a more self-sufficient and healthy food production system on Kaua`i.

Buy fresh, buy local, and buy organic when possible!! Stay tune at MalamaKauai.Org for the latest "Do-It-Yourself" workshops, including gardening, composting, and cooking with local foods. A complete list of farmerʻs markets and information in the importance of buying local can also be found at MalamaKauai.Org.

Resources:
Sustainable Table
Local Harvest
Whatʻs happening on Maui?