HI SR114

Recognizes the Whitmore Project's mission to revitalize Hawaii's local agricultural industry by transitioning from sugar and pineapple production to diversified farming.

Notes that Hawaii's active agricultural land decreased from 350,830 acres in 1980 to 151,830 acres in 2015, creating opportunities for new agricultural models.

Requests the Agribusiness Development Corporation continue acquiring agricultural land and providing long-term leases to experienced local farmers.

Highlights that the Whitmore Project provides solutions including long-term state land leases, enhanced use leases, tax incentives, co-working opportunities, and clustering of distribution, processing, and production services.

Emphasizes that increasing farmers on state land with long-term leases is crucial for boosting local food production, self-sufficiency, food security, and creating skilled agricultural jobs.