HI HCR301

Urges the University of Hawaii College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources and its extension service, with assistance from the Department of Agriculture and Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism, to develop a coordinated plan supporting citizen gardeners interested in forming community-based home organic produce cooperatives.

Seeks to help home gardeners organize surpluses of fruits and vegetables grown in residential gardens for sale in local markets, reducing Hawaii's dependence on imported produce.

Proposes that home organic produce cooperatives provide education on growing organic produce, assist with marketing surplus produce, and advise on other pertinent matters related to selling organic produce to the public.

Requires the University of Hawaii to submit a progress report no later than twenty days prior to the convening of the 2012 Regular Session.

Directs that certified copies be transmitted to the President of the University of Hawaii, Dean of the College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources, Chairperson of the Board of Agriculture, and Director of Business, Economic Development and Tourism.