Most farmers on the mainland may start their days by milking the cows. But Hawai’i’s farming culture is unique, as is evident in how Nick Reeves of Colton Farms starts his.
“My morning routine includes drinking from a coconut and jumping into the ocean,” Reeves said. In Hawai’i, he explained, the farming lifestyle is intertwined with the land and the ocean.
However, that way of life, Hawai’i’s unique farming culture, deeply rooted in the islands’ history and sustainability, is on the verge of disappearing. Local farmers like Nick Reeves and his cousin Claude Colton, co-owners of Colton Farms, are feeling the pressure as mainland corporations and high land costs threaten their livelihoods. The islands’ deeply rooted history and sustainability are on the verge of disappearing.
The cousins believe they are part of a “dying breed” due to the challenges posed by large mainland companies.
One of the primary reasons for the decline of local farming is the steep cost of land in Hawai’i. Much of the land is owned by large entities, making it difficult for small farmers to afford the space needed to grow their crops.
The number of farms in Hawai’i has been declining, with a 10.4% decrease from 2023 to 2024, according to the 2024 Census of Agriculture. Small farms have seen the largest decline.
While the disappearance of small farms may not significantly impact Hawai’i’s economy, according to Colton, the cultural effects could be profound.
“The disappearance of local farms won’t hurt the economy,” Colton said. “But it will hurt the historical culture of the islands,”
He emphasized the long-term impact that could be irreversible if no action is taken. Supporting local farmers, he argued, is vital for maintaining Hawai’i’s agricultural diversity and food security.
“Supporting local farmers could be as simple as putting gas in my car if you see me at a gas station,” Colton added, stressing the importance of community backing.
Local farming has been integral to Hawai’i for centuries. Native Hawaiians cultivated crops like taro and sweet potatoes, which were essential to their diet and culture. This connection to the land, or “āina” in Hawaiian, remains central to Hawaiian identity and values today.
Economically, local farming supports small businesses and provides jobs, contributing to Hawai’i’s economic diversity. It also reduces the state’s dependence on imported food, which accounts for 85% to 90% of Hawai’i’s supply, according to the 2024 Census of Agriculture. Supporting local farms could enhance Hawai’i’s food security, making it more resilient against disruptions in global supply chains, which is especially important due to the state’s geographical isolation.
Environmentally, local farming promotes sustainable land use and helps preserve Hawai’i’s ecosystems. Farmers practicing sustainable agriculture contribute to soil health, conserve water, and minimize harmful chemicals, all of which protect the islands’ fragile environment. Furthermore, preserving biodiversity through native and traditional crops ensures that Hawai’i’s agricultural practices remain aligned with its unique environment and cultural heritage.
Supporting local farmers is essential for sustaining the state’s agricultural industry and reducing reliance on imported goods.
“Local farming is disappearing due to a combination of high land costs, water access issues, and competition from cheaper imports,” Reeves said.
Additionally, the state’s unique challenges, such as invasive species and climate change, are putting even more strain on local farms.
Labor shortages and Hawai’i’s high cost of living make it even harder for small farms to stay profitable. Many farmers are unable to sustain their businesses, leading to a decline in local agriculture. Without substantial support, Hawai’i risks losing its agricultural heritage and becoming more dependent on imported food.
Residents can push politicians to prioritize local agriculture in upcoming elections. Implementing policies that provide financial support, such as subsidies or tax breaks for small farmers, could make a significant difference. Additionally, investing in infrastructure improvements, like water management systems and transportation, would help farmers access markets more easily.
Educational programs that teach sustainable farming practices and encourage the next generation of farmers are also crucial for maintaining Hawai’i’s agricultural future. Strengthening regulations against land speculation could further protect farmland from being converted to other uses.
By advocating for local agriculture, politicians can help ensure the sustainability and resilience of Hawai’i’s farming community.
“I feel propelled to keep the old way of farming alive,” Reeves said. “It’s something I would like to pass down to my son one day.”
The future of Hawai’i’s local farming rests on community support, policy changes, and a renewed focus on sustainability. Without these efforts, the islands risk losing not only an industry but a cultural and environmental legacy that has defined Hawai’i for centuries.