USDA hosts free conservation workshop for farmers, landowners tonight in Hilo

Farmers, ranchers and foresters on the Big Island can learn more about conservation programs and assistance at a free workshop hosted tonight by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

The East Hawaiʻi Farmers, Ranchers & Foresters Resource Workshop runs from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Komohana Research and Extension Center.

At the workshop, representatives of the USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service, Farm Service Agency and Risk Management Agency will provide information about farm loans, crop insurance and soil health. They also will answer questions.

“This is the best time for anyone working with the land, whether they have been farming for years or just started,” said Laila Jayyousi, outreach director for the Natural Resources Conservation Service. “There are loans that some people may not know they are qualified for and new research and technology that improves or maintains soil health.”

The Natural Resources Conservation Service has been supporting farmers, ranchers and landowners for nearly 90 years by investing in operations to improve the quality of air, water, wildlife habitat and soil.

“I have also seen these workshops be a great opportunity to connect with producers from around the island who may have different knowledge or experiences,” Jayyousi added.

Representatives from the state Soil and Water Conservation District and the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa’s College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources also will be available with information at the workshop.

For more information on Natural Resources Conservation Service programs, producers can contact the local USDA Service Center at 808-933-8381 ext. 2.

Producers also can apply for programs, manage conservation plans and contracts, and view and print conservation maps by creating an account at farmers.gov.