HI SR71

Request the Department of Agriculture to establish and administer a Microbial Algae Soil Products Pilot Program to introduce microbial algae on agricultural lands to improve soil health, nutrient cycling, and reduce fertilizer dependency.

Eligible farmers must operate farms of 10 to 100 acres with stable production rates, experience yield reduction or poor soil health, produce high-value or diverse crops, and operate organic farms.

Department of Agriculture may establish additional eligibility criteria and must collaborate with the College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resiliency and University of Hawaii soil science laboratories.

Department of Agriculture must submit reports with findings and recommendations for long-term application of microbial algae soil products to the Legislature no later than 20 days before the Regular Sessions of 2026 and 2027.

Transmit certified copies of the resolution to the Chairperson of the Board of Agriculture and Dean of the College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resiliency of the University of Hawaii.