The TRI-ISLE RC&D PROJECT:
MOLOKAI AGRICULTURAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM

Tri-Isle RC&D Council, Incorporated is working with private sector applicants for agricultural development projects that directly benefit businesses and private landowners on the Island of Molokai.   The program is intended for projects that positively impact the Molokai economy, and become sustainable after temporary infusion of federal funds.

The U.S. Congress mandated the Molokai Agricultural Development Program in 1993.   This mandate was the result of field hearings held on Molokai in 1989 and 1990.   The Tri-Isle RC&D Council is working closely with USDA, Natural Resources Conservation Service, Senator Inouye’s Office, and Molokai Community Impact Committee.

Gabriel Audant our new Project Manager is working with the Molokai Community on potential projects.   Gabriel has been instrumental in coordinating this project and providing information on the criteria and guidelines of the federal grant.   Business training is being provided by the Office of Entrepreneurship through the efforts of Andrea Dean.   Dale Webster of Maui Community College has made presentations on business loan classes to potential recipients.   Hawaii Small Business Development Center Network represented by David Fisher was well received in doing cash flow projections training.

Business
Plan and
Marketing
classes
are being
provided to
prospective
applicants
of the
Program.

A Cooperative agreement has been signed between USDA, Natural Resources Conservation Service and Tri-Isle RC&D Council, Inc. to administer a cost-sharing program which provides support for community based, community driven projects that promote agricultural development on Molokai.

This business that grows organic food is an example of the programs impact.   This market is strengthening the economy on the island of Molokai.

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