What's Being Discussed

The Kona Soil and Water Conservation District (KSWCD) Board of Directors is holding its monthly meeting on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, from 3:00–5:00 PM in Kealakekua. Key topics include:

• Financial update: The treasurer will share the latest budget and spending report.
• Partnership updates: Staff will report on the Hiki Ola outreach program, a conservation grant tied to the Department of Defense, a request to extend a technical assistance agreement at no added cost, and the Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP).
• Land review: Updates on county subdivision and grading activity in the Kona area.
• Federal farm programs: The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) will share updates on Farm Bill programs and plans for a local work group meeting on August 26.
• Conservation plans: Reviews of plans for Kamehameha Schools properties in Hualalai and Kealia, and a plan for a private landowner (Ed Rapoza).
• Administrative matters: Board elections, staff accounting services, leave policies, grant agreements with Hawaii County, and expense reporting to the state.
• Upcoming events: A Conservation Awareness Contest planned for September 18 and a recap of the Hawaii Agrifood Island-wide Summit.

Decisions Expected

• Approving June 2026 meeting minutes
• Affirming continued accounting services for the district
• Moving forward on board member election and appointment nominations
• Submitting grant agreements and expense reports to the county and state
• Clarifying employee vacation and sick leave policy

Who Should Pay Attention

• Farmers and landowners in the Kona region interested in conservation planning or federal farm programs
• Residents concerned about land use, grading, and natural resource protection
• Anyone interested in serving on the KSWCD Board, as elections and nominations are on the agenda