HI SB2137

Establishes an on-farm mentoring program within the department of agriculture to teach farmers whole farm system approaches to sustainable agriculture, including soil health improvement and locally sourced organic amendments.

Requires the chairperson of the board of agriculture to appoint one or more on-farm mentors for each island with a population greater than 5,000, with discretionary appointments for smaller islands.

Mandates curriculum development in collaboration with Hawaii Farmers Union United's education committee, covering locally sourced farming techniques, indigenous microorganism cultivation, nutrient recycling, and optional topics including farm management, animal husbandry, pest management, and beneficial insect breeding.

Appropriates funds from general revenues for fiscal year 2016-2017 to support existing on-farm mentoring programs and establish a pilot program in Maui County.

Effective date July 1, 2050.