Big Island leaders to host 2nd AgriPolicy summit in Hilo

Local officials and agricultural leaders will gather next month for the 2nd Annual Hawai‘i Island AgriPolicy Summit, an event aimed at strengthening the island’s long-term food production and shaping future state and county policy.

The summit is scheduled for Dec. 11 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at The Arc of Hilo.

It is being organized by Hawai‘i County Council Member Ashley Kierkiewicz, the county Department of Research and Development, state Sen. Tim Richards and state Rep. Kirstin Kahaloa.

“Having the County and State in alignment on goals and coordinated on priorities and investments is critical,” Kierkiewicz said.

“We’re committed to engaging those who work in agricultural systems so that our policy decisions are well-informed and grounded in real-world experiences.”

Organizers say the free event is open to farmers, food distributors, chefs, educators, nonprofits and community advocates. Participants are encouraged to register in advance.

The gathering follows last year’s inaugural summit, which produced a shared policy roadmap and informed several measures passed during the 2025 state legislative session. Those included laws supporting food hubs, value-added agriculture, labeling standards and interagency coordination on statewide food systems.

This year’s program will feature two panel discussions — one on reinforcing the island’s agricultural “backbone” and another focused on innovation and circular systems.

Breakout sessions will cover topics including biosecurity, agricultural infrastructure, education and workforce development, cooperative models, coastal resource management and disaster preparedness.

Officials said the summit is expected to produce updated recommendations and policy options for upcoming budget and legislative cycles.

“Supporting and growing our agriculture sector just makes sense,” Richards said, noting many people struggle to put food on the table on Hawai‘i Island. “This summit helps us gather good information that leads to good decisions and sound policies … and ultimately helps feed our people.”

Click here to learn more or to access “Growing Solutions Together: A Collective Action Roadmap.”

To register for the summit, click here.