November 24, 2025

Hawai‘i Island Leaders to Convene 2nd Annual AgriPolicy Summit

A collaborative, solutions-focused gathering to strengthen the island’s food security and agricultural future

HILO, Hawai‘i — The 2nd Annual Hawai‘i Island AgriPolicy Summit is scheduled for Thursday, December 11, from 9AM to 3PM at The Arc of Hilo. The summit is co-convened by Council Member Ashley Kierkiewicz, the Dept. of Research & Development, Sen. Tim Richards, and Rep. Kirstin Kahaloa. 

Food producers, distributors, retailers, chefs, schools, nonprofits, and community advocates are invited to participate in this solutions-focused conversation. Attendance is free, and participants are encouraged to register at tinyurl.com/hiagripolicy2025. 

This year’s summit builds on momentum generated by the inaugural 2024 gathering, which resulted in a collective action roadmap and informed significant wins during the 2025 State Legislative Session, including Act 185 related to food hubs, Act 237 related to value-added products, Act 126 and Act 238 related to labeling, and Act 239 related to interagency food systems coordination. 

“Having the County and State in alignment on goals and coordinated on priorities and investments is critical,” said Council Member Kierkiewicz. “We’re committed to engaging those who work in agricultural systems so that our policy decisions are well-informed and grounded in the real-world experiences of those who nourish our communities.”

The December 11 program features two panel discussions – Strengthening our Agricultural Backbone and Growing the Future through Innovation & Circular Systems – as well as breakout sessions focused on agricultural infrastructure, biosecurity, workforce development and education, cooperative models and innovation, coastal resource management, and food security and disaster preparedness. 

The summit will once again identify actionable solutions and policy changes needed to strengthen Hawai‘i Island’s long-term food security and sustainability. County and State officials will champion these priorities through their upcoming and respective budget and legislative cycles. 

“Supporting and growing our agriculture sector just makes sense,” said Senator Richards. “On Hawai‘i Island, food insecurity affects 44% of families and more than 60% of our keiki. This summit helps us gather good information that leads to good decisions and sound policies, building the agricultural footprint that creates good jobs, strengthens infrastructure and housing, and ultimately helps feed our people.” 

Link to register:  https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfqO_2YXszlQDMiSVKrot4_Q9DaN0e437A3i6kBXO9JME7JYw/viewform