HI SCR126

Urges the Governor, Department of Agriculture, University of Hawaii College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources, and related entities to expand Hawaii's aquaculture industry to help meet the goal of doubling local food production by 2020.

Notes that nearly 90 percent of Hawaii's food stock is imported, including more than 60 percent of seafood, leading to higher food prices, increased carbon emissions, and invasive species threats.

Highlights that Hawaii's aquaculture industry had a farm gate value of $76,400,000 in 2017, the third highest contribution to diversified agriculture, with potential to create 50,000 jobs and generate $1 billion in market value if production is doubled.

Requests the University of Hawaii College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources transfer four identified parcels (Tax Map Keys 5-8-001-013, 5-8-001-055, 5-8-001-007, and 5-8-001-006) to the Agribusiness Development Corporation for aquaculture production.

References Senate Bill No. 753 as supporting the revitalization of the Department of Agriculture's Animal Industry Division, formerly the Aquaculture Development Program.