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Message from the President, Taylor Kellerman

Dear Friends,

Oahu RC&D is currently hiring a full-time ED to replace Jean Brokish, who is departing for a position closer to home after two successful stints and 8 years as the ED of Oahu RC&D.

In addition to Jean’s departure, Frankie Koethe and Stephanie Mock have each found new professional opportunities. It is unplanned that all three are leaving their positions at the same time and though we are sad to lose treasured colleagues who have contributed so much to the organization, they will remain part of the growing Oahu RC&D family. We look forward to seeing their growth and continued success in their new positions.

We request your patience and support for our staff as they commit their energy to successfully navigating this transition over the coming months and launching an exciting new chapter for Oahu RC&D. We have amazing individuals on staff who are committed to carrying forward Oahu RC&D’s work and continuing its track record of service to sustainable agriculture in Hawaii. 

Our responses may be a step slower than our normal brisk pace during this time, and we encourage you to visit our website (www.oahurcd.org) if you would like to learn more about our current program portfolio:
  • Two watershed restoration projects for Windward Oahu, including conservation planning and BMP implementation on local farms and riparian areas for improved water quality. 
  • Conservation planning services for local farms, ranches and property owners.
  • “Skill Up” training events for cacao producers in Hawaii. 
  • A new on-farm research initiative to evaluate the relationship between conservation agriculture practices and food safety. 
  • Upcoming events for our growing network of women farmers.
You are also encouraged to contact me via the office at admin@oahurcd.org or 622-9026.
Regards,

Taylor Kellerman
Oahu RC&D Board President

We're Hiring! Executive Director

Oahu RC&D has an immediate opening for a full-time Executive Director to provide strategic leadership for Oahu RC&D’s active project portfolio supporting local sustainable agriculture. The ideal candidate is a motivated, self-starter and familiar with issues and opportunities facing Hawaii’s agriculture and / or natural resource sectors. Application review will begin September 23, 2019.

Click here to apply!

Well Wishes to Stephanie and Frankie!

Stephanie Mock has served Oahu RC&D for the past four years building relationships with local farmers, ranchers, landowners and building a network of agricultural professionals that she has thoroughly enjoyed partnering with over the years. She has been an instrumental team member and "AGvocate" in Hawaii providing technical assistance, community collaboration, and team development. Thank you for all your amazing work and the team at Oahu RC&D looks forward to see where life takes you!

"I would to thank everyone who took me under their wing, spent time with me in recent years to help me to see the wider world of agriculture in Hawaii. Without all of you, I would not have understood the story of our local food or gotten to know the stories of our local farmers and to all of you, mahalo." [Stephanie Mock]
Frankie Koethe has been working in agriculture through Oahu RC&D for the past three years. Her focus projects included the completion of the Waianae Watershed Restoration Project and developing the Hawaii Women Farmers and Ranchers Network. Frankie has become one of our power house team members developing outreach strategies and social media content. We hope for the best in her future endeavors and we are so thankful for her time working and representing Oahu RC&D to sustain local agriculture. 
"It has been such a blessing to learn and develop skills in conservation and community development through the lens of Hawaii agriculture. Oahu RC&D was pivotal in growing my professional skills and understanding what sustainable agriculture looks like today. Mahalo piha to the farmers, co-workers, partners, and community members who have shared their stories and knowledge with me. I would not be where I am today without you." [Frankie Koethe]

Sponsor Spotlight: Department of Health 

The mission of the Department of Health’s Polluted Runoff Control Program is to protect and improve the quality of Hawai‘i’s water resources by preventing and reducing nonpoint source pollution. To achieve its mission, the Program uses its federal Clean Water Act grant funds to support and implement projects throughout the State’s watersheds that improve water quality.
Mahalo to the Department of Health for supporting local agriculture by supporting Oahu RC&D!
Community Events and Opportunities 
Heirloom Cacao Field Day
Maunawili Breeding Station, O'ahu
September 21 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Join HARC and HDOA for a grafting demonstration, field tour and discussion on cacao varietals in Hawaii.  

More information
Register here
5th Farmers Market at Hamakua Harvest
Honokaa, Big Island
September 22 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM
The festivities feature ono food, live music, keiki activities, food and craft vendors, a free educational event and more.
 
Workshop:
Gelatinase Chitonase Microorganisms (GCM)
Urban Garden Center, Oahu

September 30 8:30 PM - 11:30 PM

This presentation will show examples of how GCM  technology is being used by farmers to decrease pest pressures and increase profits! Professor Kim will provide education to farmers on production of safe agricultural products, including the effect of chitinase producing bacteria on crop growth and pathogen control.

Register Today
Hawaii Agriculture Conference
Hawai'i Convention Center
October 15, 16 All Day

The 2019 Hawaii Agriculture Conference (AG2019) will be held October 15-16, 2019 at the Hawaii Convention Center. Hosted by the Agricultural Leadership Foundation of Hawaii (ALFH), this event is Hawaii’s premiere, all-sector agriculture conference. Please join us!

More information 

 
Job Opportunities
MAO Organic Farm
Full-time and part-time positions are open at MAO Organic Farms. Join their dynamic team to help create learning and leadership opportunities for Leeward Coast Youth, while growing food for our community.

Apply today
Job Opportunities
Kahumana Organic Farms
Kahumana Organic Farms is hiring a full time Education and Outreach Coordinator. Primary focus includes leading and developing a great outreach program and learning about the projects on the farm. 


Click here to learn more
Updated Oahu Soil Water Conservation District Meeting Schedule
West Oahu
SWCD Meeting


October 22, 2019
12:30 PM

Nutrien Ag Solutions Conference Room
Windward Oahu
SWCD Meeting


October 17, 2019
6:00 PM

KEY Project
 
South Oahu 
SWCD Meeting


October 3, 2019
6:00 PM

Regency Park
Rec Room
Our work in sustainable agriculture is not possible without your support.
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Copyright © 2019 Oʻahu Resource Conservation & Development, All rights reserved.

Our mailing address is:
P.O. Box 209
Kunia, HI 96759

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