Specialty farmer business training workshop planned

Landowners growing or wanting to grow Christmas trees and other specialty crops are invited to attend the upcoming Specialty Farmer Business Training Workshop from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Oct. 21 at the Hilo Yacht Club.

The workshop is free, but seating is limited.

Hawaii Small Business Development Center instructors will conduct the workshop, which is part of the ‘Aina Mauna Christmas Tree Demonstration Project. Topics will be applicable to those interested in growing or selling Christmas trees as well as other crops. The workshop will be filmed by Big Island Television.

The ‘Aina Mauna Christmas Tree Demonstration Project involves importing and propagating seed and outplanting fir seedlings on Hawaii Island.

The project’s goal is to show that Douglas fir is suitable for Hawaii production and establish protocols and methods to create top quality Christmas trees that can compete with the imported trees in markets in Hawaii. Providing Hawaii with locally grown Christmas trees will support import replacement and promote the “Buy Local, It Matters” message.

The workshop is funded in part by the state Department of Agriculture and the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service.

To reserve a seat, RSVP by email to hfia@hawaiiforest.org.

Established in 1989, the Hawaii Forest Industry Association is a nonprofit corporation founded by and for people committed to managing healthy and productive forests.

As Hawaii’s recognized forest industry trade association, HFIA, through education, planning, information exchange and advocacy, encourages the responsible growth of Hawaii’s forest industry.

HFIA programs promote healthier forests, increased business and more jobs within the forestry sector.

For more information, contact HFIA Executive Director Heather Simmons at 933-9411 or email heather.hfia@hawaiiforest.org.