HI HR112

Requests University of Hawaii at Manoa College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources to convene a working group to develop a coordinated framework supporting preschool through post-secondary agriculture education with implementation plan by December 31, 2017.

Working group to be led by the Dean of the College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources and include representatives from state agencies, universities, legislative committees, and agricultural organizations (20 specified members).

Addresses Hawaii's aging farming workforce (average age over 60) and insufficient youth interest in agriculture by promoting education coordination across state agencies and stakeholders.

Working group must submit implementation strategy and recommendations to the Legislature by twenty days prior to the 2017 regular session, with status reports due before 2018 and 2019 regular sessions.

Recognizes benefits of agriculture education programs including farm-to-school and school garden initiatives in improving student health, academic achievement, and awareness of food systems.