HI SR80

University of Hawaii at Manoa College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources requested to convene a working group to develop a coordinated framework of support for 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 or designee.

Working group membership includes 20 specified members from state agencies, legislature, universities, and agriculture organizations including the Board of Agriculture, Department of Education, Hawaii Farm Bureau Federation, and Future Farmers of America.

Working group required to submit implementation strategy and recommendations to the Legislature no later than twenty days before the 2017 Regular Session, with follow-up status reports before the 2018 and 2019 Regular Sessions.

Resolution addresses Hawaii's aging farmer population and insufficient youth interest in agriculture by establishing coordinated support for agriculture education including farm to school and school garden programs.