What's Being Discussed

The Hāmākua Soil & Water Conservation District (SWCD) is holding its monthly board meeting on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. The meeting is held via teleconference, with in-person locations available in Hilo and Waimea. Key topics include:

• Reviewing and approving conservation plans for three landowners: HuiMAU, G. Tan, and T. Cherry
• Updates on the Perimeter Fence Program, community cost-share program (Laulima), and other conservation planning efforts
• Reports from the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) offices in Hilo and Waimea, and from the Farm Service Agency (FSA)
• A financial update from the Treasurer
• Upcoming events, including the 2026 Hawaii Agricultural Conference (November 9–10, Waikoloa) and a Pacific Region meeting in Guam
• Updates on local work groups in Waimea and Hilo, including a community survey

Decisions Expected

• Approving conservation plans for three cooperators (HuiMAU, G. Tan, T. Cherry)
• Board member election — Kea Keolanui is up for a seat covering 2026–2029
• Re-appointment of board member Beaton
• Possible review of subdivision, zoning change, or farm dwelling applications

Who Should Pay Attention

• Farmers and landowners in the Hāmākua region seeking conservation planning assistance or cost-share funding
• Community members interested in local land use, soil, and water conservation efforts
• Anyone wishing to testify — written testimony must be submitted at least 24 hours in advance to hamakuaswcd1990@gmail.com