Farming is Crucial
Grove Farm values the importance of farming and agriculture as it plays a crucial role in the local economy. Growing what we eat is crucial as it keeps money on the island – a key component in building a more sustainable Kaua’i. In addition, the more we grow locally, we build food security in the event that the import process is affected by natural disasters, shipping strikes, or airline disruptions.
Since its inception, Grove Farm has always been responsible stewards. Our legacy plantation-era water systems are maintained till this day, ensuring responsible land and water resource management for generations to come.
Our Grove Farm Farmers
Farming is much more than planting a seed in dirt and watching it grow. It requires long hours, working in the fields from dawn to dusk. Successful farmers face constant adversity dealing with plant diseases, feral animals, unpredictable weather, and even theft. They must market their products and be business owners, while facing stiff competition, changing market demands, and increasing governmental regulations.
Our farmers come from all walks of life. Some were born into farming, while others paved their own way and learned by trial and error. These farmers are incredibly hard-working people who have dedicated their lives to this profession. These are some of our farmers. We are proud of them, and we share their stories with you.
Baltazar & Lolita Aggasid
Meet Baltazar Aggasid and his wife Lolita. They have been farming on Grove Farm’s Lihuʻe lands since 2002, and grow an array of produce...
Bruce Jacintho
Mother nature’s fresh spring water and the warmth of the Ha‘ikū sunshine provide optimum conditions for watercress. Bruce Jacintho has...
Sakda Meephol
Today was hot in Kōloa. It’s been dark for a while and it is close to 9:00 p.m. After a 14-hour workday, a farmer looks forward to a...
Ron Ota
Gazing from higher ground, he points below, tracing the waterways and topography of what were once ancient taro fields.
Nophadom “Nap” Seechachet
Rich volcanic soil, well-managed water sources, lots of Kaua’i sunshine, and most importantly, the heart and dedication of farmers bring...
Elmer Viernes
When Elmer Viernes was just 6 years old, he remembers working on his family’s rice farm in the Philippines. He would wake up early...
Suthat "Dang" Promnonsri
It’s no secret that farming is a way of life. Some farmers choose the lifestyle, while others like Suthat Promnonsri, are born into it....
Dustin “Bubba” Leach
A wide-open field full of guinea grass and albizia trees could be seen as an eyesore to some, but for ranchers like Dustin Leach, it’s...
Chris Kauwe
“More flowers, more honey.” That was one of many lessons learned while touring beehives at Puʻu Honi crater, which rests on Grove Farm...
Charles Reid
Looking through his family car’s window, Charles Reid grew up admiring the seemingly endless farmlands of San Joaquin Valley,...
Remie Eugenio
“Farming is hard. You have to continuously dedicate yourself”, says Remie Eugenio as he looks out over his papaya fields. Remie has...