Pacific Islands Conservation Collaboration
Hawai’i and American Samoa
Project Summary
We are working to improve water quality, soil health and natural resources conservation on islands. In Hawai’i and American Samoa, Ridge to Reefs is collaborating with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) to develop long-range plans to implement the Farm Bill. Stakeholders and local farmers identified resource needs that can be met with this program. These resources will better assist farmers in implementing conservation practices on their farms. Implementation of these conservation practices ensures high water quality, preserves biodiversity, and ensures the longevity of soil health.
Problem
Island farmers have been historically underserved and face many challenges, including high cost of inputs, extreme weather, and degraded soils. There is a critical need to improve coordination, facilitation, and implementation for targeted conservation programs. A comprehensive needs assessment is required to identify and prioritize resource concerns and to coordinate program efforts.
Solution
Resources and technical expertise can overcome these barriers to advancing conservation objectives. To leverage these resources, it is essential to increase NRCS Farm Bill implementation capacity and farmer outreach on Pacific Islands.
Implementation
We are working in Hawai’i and Maui counties and across the Tutuila Island of American Samoa with Soil and Water Conservation Districts, public officials, NGOs, and farmers to identify priorities. We are developing long-range plans with stakeholder input to promote the improved implementation of conservation practices available through the Farm Bill. Early action projects and technical assistance will be completed by Conservation Implementation Teams. These teams will consisting of qualified participants from Ridge to Reefs, the Soil and Water Conservation Districts, local farmers, NGOs and other relevant stakeholders.
Outcomes
The project will result in long-range plans for Hawai’i, Maui, and American Samoa. These plans will outline strategies to achieve conservation objectives through NRCS programs and other innovative practices.
Funders and Partners United States Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service; Soil and Water Conservation Districts; American Samoa Community College; Coral Reef Advisory Group; East and West Maui Watershed Coordinators; Hawai'i Institute of Pacific Agriculture; Simpli-fresh Farm
