Members and guests of the Rotary Club of Lahaina Sunset recently embarked on a tour of Mahi Pono's agricultural operations in Central Maui, offering a glimpse into the company's ongoing transformation of former sugarcane lands. The tour provided valuable insights into Mahi Pono's farming practices and allowed for direct interaction with farm managers, strengthening the connection between the local community and this significant agricultural endeavor.
Mahi Pono, a joint venture between Pomona Farming, LLC, and the Public Sector Pension Investment Board (PSP Investments), acquired approximately 41,000 acres of former Hawaiian Commercial & Sugar Company lands. Global Ag Investing reported on the initial sale, highlighting the ambitious plans for diversified agriculture. The goal is to cultivate a variety of crops, including coffee, fruits, and vegetables, for both domestic and export markets. This transition represents a significant shift for Maui's agricultural landscape, moving away from monoculture towards a more diverse and sustainable model.
The tour likely covered key aspects of Mahi Pono's operations, including crop cultivation, irrigation techniques, and land management strategies. Such visits are crucial for fostering community understanding and support for the company's agricultural projects. As Maui Now has reported, Mahi Pono is also actively involved in community initiatives, such as partnering with GoFarm Hawaiʻi to build Maui's agricultural workforce, which provides additional avenues for community engagement.
Furthermore, the visit by the Rotary Club of Lahaina Sunset underscores Mahi Pono’s ongoing efforts to engage with the local community and stakeholders. Community relations are a critical aspect of such large-scale agricultural projects. The Lahaina News previously reported on Mahi Pono's community outreach initiatives, emphasizing the importance of transparency and open communication. These efforts are particularly important in the context of transforming the agricultural landscape of Maui and helping to feed local communities.
