HI HB773

Establishes a community food forest program within the Department of Land and Natural Resources to develop a statewide network of locally-directed community food forests in parks, community centers, and other suitable public locations.

Program shall identify potential locations, examine fiscal effects on food assistance and local farm revenues, determine appropriate edible plants based on community preferences and environmental conditions, and provide technical assistance to ensure sustainability.

Authorizes the department to lease public land or improvements to county agencies or community-based organizations at nominal consideration for up to 15 years without public auction for managing or maintaining community food forests.

Requires the program to develop harvesting guidelines to prevent theft and unauthorized sale of plants, establish public health and safety policies, and adopt implementing rules under chapter 91.

Appropriates unspecified general revenue funds for fiscal years 2015-2016 and 2016-2017 to establish the program, with the department required to report to the legislature before each regular session beginning in 2016 on implementation progress and community involvement.