Hawaii's agricultural sector is set to receive a boost with the opening of applications for the 2026 Compost Reimbursement Program, as announced by the Hawai‘i Department of Agriculture and Biosecurity (DAB). This program, aimed at supporting local farmers and agricultural producers, offers reimbursement for compost purchases and related transportation expenses. This initiative is particularly timely, given the rising operational costs faced by many agricultural businesses in the state.
The program, funded with $400,000 for fiscal year 2026, approved by the Hawai’i Legislature and Governor Josh Green, allows agricultural operations to apply for the reimbursement of up to 50% of their compost and transportation costs. According to Kauai Now News, the costs must be incurred between July 1, 2025, and May 1, 2026. “For many agricultural operations, compost material is a necessity and a major expense,” Hawai‘i Board of Agriculture and Biosecurity Chairperson Sharon Hurd stated in the announcement.
The Compost Reimbursement Program underscores the state's commitment to supporting sustainable agricultural practices. By incentivizing the use of compost, the program promotes soil health, reduces the need for chemical fertilizers, and contributes to overall environmental stewardship. This aligns with broader initiatives aimed at enhancing the resilience and sustainability of Hawaii's agricultural sector. The program’s focus on helping with transportation costs is especially helpful for smaller farms that may not have the resources to purchase large quantities of compost or are located far from suppliers.
Agricultural producers interested in taking part in this opportunity need to submit their applications before the deadline of May 1, 2026. The Governor.Hawaii.gov provides details on the application process and eligibility requirements. For those seeking further information, an Instagram post provides additional information, including the reimbursement cap of $50,000 per qualified purchaser and the requirement to purchase compost from certified Hawaiʻi-licensed suppliers.
