Urging The Department Of Agriculture, In Consultation With The Agribusiness Development Corporation, To Designate Kunia, Leilehua Plateau, And Poamoho As The Central Oahu Agricultural Corridor And To Establish A List Prioritizing Potential Agricultural Infrastructure Improvement Projects That Would Provide The Most Value To The State.
The resolution highlights the need for new infrastructure to support diversified farming, which is essential for reducing the state's vulnerability to food supply disruptions caused by natural disasters or global events. The establishment of this agricultural corridor is seen as a strategic step that would lead to infrastructure improvements necessary for boosting agricultural production in Hawaii. The resolution calls for a detailed report and prioritization of potential agricultural infrastructure projects that align with state and county planning and zoning needs.
HCR176, introduced during the Thirty-second Legislature of 2023, is a concurrent resolution urging the Department of Agriculture, in consultation with the Agribusiness Development Corporation, to designate the areas of Kunia, Leilehua Plateau, and Poamoho as the Central Oahu Agricultural Corridor. This designation is part of a broader effort to enhance agricultural productivity in Hawaii, addressing the state's significant reliance on imported food and aiming to increase local food production to meet the goal of doubling it by 2030.
The sentiment surrounding HCR176 is generally positive, as it reflects a proactive approach to addressing food security challenges in Hawaii. Supporters of the bill recognize the potential economic and social benefits of enhancing local agriculture and view the corridor designation as an opportunity to revitalize agricultural practices in areas historically important for farming. However, the resolution does not present any notable contention or opposition, indicating a consensus on the importance of supporting local agriculture.
While no explicit points of contention were reported during discussions of HCR176, the success of the proposed agricultural infrastructure projects may depend on the collaboration and coordination among various stakeholders, including county governments and private landowners. Future debates could arise over the specific prioritization of projects and the allocation of resources, but overall, the resolution promotes a unified goal of enhancing Hawaii's agricultural capabilities.