Pahoa to Host ‘Talk Story’ Session on Agriculture and Gardening

Hawaii County Councilman Greggor Ilagan’s office is inviting the community to participate in a ‘talk story’ session with experts from the agricultural industry on Friday, March 22 at 5:30 pm in the Pahoa Community Center.

The discussion will include Bruce Mathews, Phd, the Interim Dean of UH Hilo’s College of Agriculture, Forestry and Natural Resource Management.

“We need to get boots on the ground to help people with all aspects of gardening and agriculture,” said Mathews.

Friday’s session will feature an overview of the UH Hilo program, workshops, and educational opportunities for farmers and gardeners. Grant funding may also be discussed.

Members of the Hawai`i Papaya Association will also be present to answer questions.

A sign-up sheet will be available for future workshops on vermicomposting by horticulturalist Dr. Norman Arancon.

Vermicomposting relies on earthworms to create nutrient-rich organic fertilizers and soil conditioners.

Anyone is invited to attend. Questions about Friday’s session may be directed to the office of Councilman Ilagan at 808-965-2712. He may also be reached by email at gilagan@hawaiicounty.gov.

For more information on vermicomposting, contact Dr. Arancon at normanq@hawaii.edu.