HI HB785

Appropriates general revenues to the Department of Land and Natural Resources for operational expenses and staffing costs of the Hawaii Association of Conservation Districts for fiscal years 2017-2018 and 2018-2019 (specific dollar amount left blank in bill text).

Authorizes funding to support the sixteen soil and water conservation districts across Hawaii's major islands, which assist with environmental protection, farm practices, erosion reduction, water quality improvement, and invasive species management.

Enables conservation districts to increase services including county grading permit reviews, conservation plan preparation, and farm plan assistance that have increased in demand but are limited by current funding shortages.

Addresses funding crisis that has limited district services primarily to priority watershed areas and threatens educational programs, support for new farmers, and assistance to agricultural landowners statewide.

Effective date set for July 1, 2050 (appears to be a drafting placeholder rather than intended effective date).