Anawaiwela Farm
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Our primary program is the operation of a small, off-grid Permaculture Homestead Farm in Opihikao, Hawaii, helping to ensure Hawaii’s food security, and demonstrating a sustainable way of life. Our three principal volunteers represent over 100 years of experience in land stewarding.
Ulu, or breadfruit, holds great promise to feed the hungry throughout the tropical world. Breadfruit was the plant sought by the British naval officer, Captain Bligh, made famous by ‘Mutiny on the Bounty.’ 
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Over 85% of our food is imported to the islands from great distances. Because of this, Hawaii is particularly vulnerable to supply disruptions and also immediately experiences the impact on food costs due to fluctuations in fuel prices. In the 1960's this percentage was reversed – can we shift back to the wisdom of using our ideal climate zone to produce this amount once again?
Widespread agreement among experts points to re-localizing our food production as a necessary step forward.
Widespread agreement among experts points to re-localizing our food production as a necessary step forward.
A critical need exists to find a way to make a living farming. According to the USDA’s most recent census data on Hawaii’s farmers, the majority of our principal farm operators are 55 to 65 years old. There are about one hundred farmers under the age of 34, and only 300 farmers ages 34 to 44, out of 5,601 farmers, statewide. Even if some small farms might be under-reported by these figures, an enormous need is present for young people to take up farming in order to supply locally grown food for the state. Permaculture offers a practical and sustainable approach..
EDUCATION IS THE ANSWER
Permaculture principles offer results that are sustainable.
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Young people come from around the world to this area, seeking to learn Permaculture. The Permaculture Foundation has partnered with neighboring Permaculture farms by offering a homestead and classroom for a hands-on approach to learning. Our homestead will be an outdoor walking classroom with an opportunity to enjoy learning by doing.
Our homestead farm offers inspiration for those who are interested in a direct, practical experience of what it takes to live off the resources of the land. Through understanding Permaculture principals one gradually begins to appreciate one's own link to ancestral farming techniques. We support personal growth and communication, artistic expression, as well as practical gardening skills. Creating and maintaining an off-grid, self-reliant way of living is one of the most rewarding educational experiences one can imagine. |