HI SCR35

Requests the Department of Agriculture to convene a working group to explore ways to encourage young people's interest in farming and agriculture.

Working group membership includes representatives from the Board of Agriculture, Board of Education, Hawaii Farm Bureau Federation, Board of Land and Natural Resources, University of Hawaii College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources, Hawaii Agricultural Research Center, Agribusiness Development Corporation, and working agriculturalists from various sectors.

Working group must explore public-private sector partnerships to develop programs that engage elementary students through farm visits and gardens, maintain high school interest through work stipends, and support college students through agriculture-related scholarships.

Programs should focus on teaching technology, science, and business methods to establish a global perspective on food production.

Department of Agriculture must submit findings, recommendations, and any proposed legislation to the Legislature no later than twenty days before the 2012 Regular Session convenes.