April Newsletter: Storm Preparation, Student Visits and Support for Kauaʻi Families
Weathering the Storm
When forecasters predicted severe weather last month, Grove Farm’s land management team took proactive steps to prepare and strengthen water infrastructure before the heavy rains arrived.
“Thanks to the year-round work of our dedicated contractors, our water systems were well prepared and resilient during the latest Kona low storm,” said Casey Watabu, Vice President of Asset Management. “Our crews work year-round to clear streams, ditches, flumes, tunnels, and reservoirs. Proactive maintenance is essential to keep our community safe, protected and supported.”
Every year, Grove Farm invests hundreds of thousands of dollars in preventative maintenance throughout East Kaua‘i and the South Shore. Removing debris as well as vegetation — like guinea grass, hau bush, and bamboo trees — ensures that water flows freely and can lower the risk of flooding as well as help to preserve and improve ecosystem health and water quality.
We are grateful to have been spared the worst, and we know that many across Hawai‘i were far more affected. Our hearts and prayers remain with all who were impacted by the recent storms and flooding.
Kaimukī Christian School Visits Makauwahi Cave
Grove Farm continues to welcome school groups to Makauwahi Cave Reserve to ensure that students can learn about this precious archaeological, ecological and cultural site.
On April 1, we were pleased to welcome middle school students, teachers, and parents from Kaimukī Christian School on O‘ahu. The school’s Vice Principal, Lindon Kanakanui, arranged the visit and Grove Farm was pleased to provide educational modules for the school to prepare the students ahead of the excursion. Hosted by Grove Farm’s Beau Acoba and subject matter expert Linz Armstrong, the group learned about the Makauwahi Cave Reserve’s network of passages, prehistoric history and biological diversity. Dr. Armstrong is an archaeologist with deep ties to the area, who has studied Makauwahi Cave extensively and often leads school group trips in the area.
Thank you, Kaimukī Christian School, for visiting us!
Hawai‘i Foodbank Launches Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program
The Hawaiʻi Foodbank’s Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) officially began on April 1 and will run through October 31. The program helps eligible seniors access fresh, locally grown fruits, vegetables and herbs. Each approved kupuna will receive $50 in coupons, with each coupon valued at $5.
Several farmers at Grove Farm Market are participating in the program. See below for the list.
- Yasaka
- Sakda Farm
- Hole in the Mountain
- Watchara
- Weeraphon Phokee
- Lin’s Farm
- Hannah Huang (Kauaʻi Glory Farm)
- Lee’s Bees
- Dang Farm
Highlighting Women-Owned Businesses
Last month, in celebration of Women’s History Month, the Kaua‘i Committee on the Status of Women held a craft fair on Saturday, March 28, in conjunction with the weekly Grove Farm Market.
The event featured 30 women-owned businesses showcasing unique crafts and products under the Kaua‘i Made brand. Established in 2005, by the County of Kauaʻi’s Office of Economic Development under then-Director Beth Amaro, Kaua‘i Made highlights and promotes products made on the island.
Supporting Kauaʻi’s Caregivers
Caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s or dementia is not easy, and no one should have to navigate that journey alone. On Saturday, March 28, the Alzheimer’s Association, Hawaiʻi Chapter hosted the Ola Nā Lima Mālama: Hawaiʻi Caregiver Conference at Kauaʻi Community College, creating a space for family caregivers to gather, learn and feel supported.
Throughout the conference, attendees heard practical advice, connected with fellow caregivers, and gained tools to help navigate the challenges of caregiving with greater confidence. Featured speaker Adria Thompson of Be Light Care Consulting shared real-world caregiving strategies that participants could apply right away.
Grove Farm was honored to sponsor this program that provided valuable support for Kauaʻi’s families and community.