HI SB490

Establishes a community food forest program within the Department of Land and Natural Resources to develop a statewide network of locally-directed community food forests in parks, community centers, and other suitable public locations.

Program shall identify locations, examine fiscal impacts on food assistance for low-income residents, determine appropriate edible plants for each location, implement gardens, provide community technical assistance, develop harvesting guidelines, and establish public health and safety policies.

Authorizes the department to lease public land or improvements to governmental or nongovernmental organizations for up to 15 years to manage or maintain community food forests.

Appropriates $125,000 for fiscal years 2019-2020 and 2020-2021, allocated as $75,000 for a full-time program administrator position and $50,000 for operating expenses.

Requires the department to report to the legislature prior to each regular session beginning in 2020 on program progress, potential locations, and community involvement; takes effect December 31, 2050.