Exploring ‘Oko‘a Farms: A Journey into Organic Farming
In Kula, students from Carden Academy recently visited ‘Oko‘a Farms, where they got to sample fresh pomegranates and blackberries. Ryan Earehart, one of the farm’s owners, took the fifth-graders on a tour, showcasing everything from purple snap peas to watermelon radishes.
‘Oko‘a, which means “different” in Hawaiian, spans 46 acres. This diversity is not just a point of pride; it has kept Earehart from achieving official organic certification despite following organic practices for nearly two decades. The tedious paperwork and high costs associated with certification can be overwhelming for busy farmers like him.
Many farmers face similar challenges. Earehart has recently joined a mentorship program that guides farmers through the certification process. With their help, he and his partner Salvador Gil Coca are on track to get certified by April, opening new market opportunities.
The Transition to Organic Partnership Program, part of a USDA initiative, aims to assist farmers like Earehart. Unfortunately, budget cuts have affected its duration and goals. Originally intended to support 75 farmers, the program now expects to help around 50. Program coordinator Christian Zuckerman noted that interest has increased, but the looming end is a concern.
According to a report from the Organic Trade Association, the demand for organic products in the U.S. hit a record $71.6 billion in 2024, growing at 5.2%. This surge pairs with a troubling trend: the number of U.S. organic farms has plummeted by about 71% since 2008.
To counter these challenges, the USDA announced a $300 million initiative to support farmers transitioning to organic practices. Despite this, many small farms hesitate to pursue certification due to high costs and complicated regulations.
In Hawaii, there are currently 117 USDA-certified organic farms covering over 110,000 acres. However, the state has lost half of its certified operations in the last decade, primarily because local products have become highly valued, making certification less attractive.
Earehart’s journey began in 2007 as a produce manager, where he noticed the high reliance on imported organic food. Now, he manages nearly 100 crops and over 800 chickens, putting efforts into building a healthy ecosystem. He explains the critical role of microbes in maintaining soil health, emphasizing that his farming practices prioritize sustainability.
Despite challenges such as invasive deer and fluctuating income, Earehart remains committed to organic farming. His story is a reminder of the dedication needed to maintain sustainable agricultural practices.
Mentorship programs like the one at ‘Oko‘a Farms are designed to support farmers through the organic certification journey, helping them overcome obstacles like detailed record-keeping and compliance with organic standards.
Kaipo Kekona, a farm manager involved in the program, believes organic farming is about returning to indigenous principles of caring for the land. He emphasizes the importance of using natural fertilizers made from local materials, which aligns with practices used by early Native Hawaiians.
Although the future of support programs remains uncertain, both Earehart and Kekona remain hopeful about the potential for organic farming in Hawaii. By focusing on sustainable practices, they are paving the way for a more resilient and environmentally friendly agricultural landscape.
As the narrative of organic farming in Hawaii unfolds, it highlights the intersection of traditional knowledge and modern agricultural challenges. By working together, farmers, mentors, and the community can drive forward a more sustainable future.
For further details on organic farming, you can check the USDA’s Organic Program.
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