HI HR266

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

Aims to help home gardeners market surplus fruits and vegetables from residential gardens, reducing Hawaii's dependence on imported produce.

Home organic produce cooperatives would educate gardeners about organic farming practices and provide assistance with marketing and selling surplus produce.

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

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