Recently, a four acre parcel in Kilauea, located on Wai Koa Plantation, was leased to Malama Kaua`i for the purpose of establishing a community garden.
Plots will be available in Fall of this year for families, individuals, businesses, and schools that have a desire to grow nutritious foods for themselves and others, learn about organic gardening, connect with the `aina, and foster community. For people that are inexperienced, and for those that simply want to enhance their skills, workshops and training programs will be available on site. Local experts on composting and soil remediation, vermiculture, site design and permaculture, pest control, and other gardening topics have committed to contributing to the ongoing success of the project by being available to share their mana`o with both plot managers and the community at large.
A core group of certified permaculturists, long-time Kaua`i farmers, and garden enthusiasts are in the process of designing the site. It will be a place for the whole `ohana, with special areas for the keiki. For all ages, it will be a space for creativity, learning, social bonding, and cultivating a relationship with the `aina. All are welcome to participate in the design and development of the site.
A community garden is a long-term investment in community food security. The Kilauea site will have a large food forest with a rich diversity of trees. Eventually, the goal is to cultivate enough abundance to supply fresh produce to the neediest in our community, as well as the local area seniors. The garden will also contribute to food security by preserving and perpetuating plant biodiversity. A wide array of native and introduced species will be cultivated, and the garden will host seed and plant exchanges.
Volunteers and donations of all kinds are needed to make this vision a reality. The most immediate needs are materials for irrigation and fencing, organic soil inputs, the use of machinery for site development, a mower, tools, trees, working hands, and money. This is a true community effort, and it is going to take the generosity of many to create a place of beauty and delicious abundance.
To assist please contact Keone Kealoha at keone@malamakauai.org, 828-0685 x14
