Expansion Being Considered

We were pleased to see the county considering plans to expand Kula Agricultural Park.  If you have ever attended a 4H event and watched our future farmers with such enthusiasm on their faces as they learn about the different aspects of farming, it can make your heart sing.

The Maui News reported that the county is considering leasing and hopefully eventually purchasing 869 acres of former sugar cane land. The hope is to open the doors for small farmers who otherwise don’t have the opportunity for small farming parcels.

The 869 acres the county is considering would be able to grow crops that would include bananas, papayas, pineapples, cucumbers, tomatoes, corn, potatoes and chickpeas. Livestock could also be raised there as well.

To read the entire article via the Maui News, visit their website here.

Coming Up This Weekend

This Friday, February 19th,  is the Makawao Friday Town Party.  Makawao merchants get together and provide a great outdoor area to mingle and enjoy festivities.  This event runs from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm.  Enjoy music, dancing, food, and shopping!

On Saturday February 20th, JUMPSmartMaui will be celebrating their third anniversary at the Queen Ka’ahumanu Center from 10:30 am to 1:00 pm.  JUMPSmartMaui is a project between Japan, Hawaii, and Maui incorporating renewable energy for a cleaner future for Maui.  This project is in need of 300 volunteers for their next phase.  Admission is free.  Sign up to test drive a Nissan Leaf,  plus giveaways and refreshments will be available.  For more information, visit the JumpSmartMaui page here.

Maui Nui Farmers Market in Kula is an ongoing event every Thursday-Sunday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.  The 40 acre farm is famous for it’s delicious produce.  Some of the crops grown here include lettuce, zucchini, avocados among many others.  Flowers are also available including gardenias , protea, and tuberroses.  To learn more about Maui Nua Farm via their website.

We hope you have a great week and weekend!  Mahalo!

Maui Kula Lavender

A Day Upcountry

Most people think of Maui and imagine the beach with beautiful sunsets, warm ocean water, and sandy beaches.  Maui has a beauty that doesn’t get the same attention their beaches may get.  Known as Upcountry, there are a variety of organic farms, places to eat, and shopping to enjoy.

Kula Country Farm has delicious strawberries as well as other fruits, vegetables and flowers.  The Kula produce stand is located on the slopes of Haleakala offers fresh produce that is replenished daily.  The pumpkin patch and Christmas at the farm are two family friendly events.  Make sure to check their website for dates and hours of operation.

If you’re looking for something truly unique, you may want to try the tour at Organic Ocean Vodka.  Open daily from 9:30 am to 5:00 pm, tours run every 30 minutes with the last tour starting at 4:00 pm.  A great lesson in sustainable farming and preservation of the land and ocean, ticket prices range from $10 to $25 ($25 includes lunch).

In need of a pick me up?  Stop at Grandma’s Coffee for some organic coffee and fresh-baked goods.  Open 7 days a week from 7:00 am to 5:00 pm. Sit on the outdoor deck and enjoy the views of the ocean and mountains!  Surfing Goat Dairy has gourmet cheeses, goat cheese truffles, and some yummy cheesecake.  Bring your appetite with you!  It’s also a great place to get a gift basket!  Check their website for hours of operation.

After you get your fill of food and treats, you will want to do some shopping in Makawao.  Makawao Fine Art Gallery was founded in 1986 and has become one of the finest galleries in Hawaii. Works displayed are both local and nationally known artists.  At Worcester Glass Works you can watch the glass making process.  Original works sold on site in the shop!

Every third Friday, Maui Fridays is happening in Makawao.  Enjoy music, entertainment, activities,  and shopping.  A fun family event that everyone will enjoy.  Nights tend to be chilly so be sure to bring a light jacket!