March Newsletter: Our Commitment to 24/7 Water-Safety
Building Communities: Keeping Kauaʻi’s Water Systems Strong
When heavy rains and high winds swept across Kauaʻi in February, our island’s storm response was put to the test. While residents watched the weather closely, crews across Grove Farm’s lands were already in motion to monitor water levels, clear flow paths, and ensure that critical infrastructure performed exactly as it was designed to.
Grove Farm partners with Adam Killermann and his team of water infrastructure experts at AJAR Inc. to operate, maintain and enhance the miles of legacy water systems and structures that our community depends upon. Throughout all circumstances — from extreme weather to drought conditions — Adam and his crew monitor and manage ditches, flumes, waterways and reservoirs. They prepare thoroughly prior to weather events, and they mobilize swiftly with a time-tested playbook to keep systems running smoothly. Their work is 24/7 to protect the public, support our agricultural industry, and provide drinking water for residents.
Thank you, Adam and the crew of AJAR, for your dedication and tireless commitment to our community! Reliable infrastructure is essential for a safe and thriving community. Grove Farm is committed to maintaining and modernizing water systems to protect homes, farms, and other local businesses — ensuring Kaua‘i stays safe and resilient, even during extreme weather.
That’s a Wrap! Celebrating Kauaʻi’s Next Generation of Storytellers
Last month, 25 student teams from across Kauaʻi took on a creative challenge unlike any other — writing, filming, and editing an original short film on a surprise topic, all within just 24 hours!
The inaugural Kauaʻi Student Film Challenge, presented by the Kaua‘i Economic Development Board, culminated in a celebratory evening at the Kaua‘i Community College Performing Arts Center. Modeled after a glitzy awards ceremony, students and guests “walked the red carpet,” screened the short films, and were honored with awards across a variety of categories.
Congratulations to all of the winners:
People’s Choice Award & Overall Best in Show: Kapaʻa High School
Hailey Hadley, Kai Ganir, Tiare Nunes, Ginger Nunes
Elementary Division
1st Place: Kilauea Elementary School
Jeremaiah Guerrero, Kaya Kapp, Hikina Wanaʻao Maii, Rayna Wolkon
2nd Place: Wilcox Elementary School
Elijah Ganotisi, Martin Binonwangan, Kennedy Desmarais, Noa Fern
3rd Place: Kalaheo Elementary School
Athena Pereza, Mikaela Patterson, Crosby McKreaken, Emalia Miguel, Andrew Bernat
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Middle School Division
1st Place: Chiefess Kamakahelei Middle School
Sora Dressler, Alana Bowen, Janice Mahuka, Lily Schoettler, Leila Fernandes, Leifur Hardy
2nd Place: Alakaʻi O Kauaʻi Charter School
Brett Butler, Hudson Sherrill, Dustin Kaneakua, Cleo Bell-Grey, Fiona Ganzagan
3rd Place: Chiefess Kamakahelei Middle School
Avery Domingsel, Jaeless Gandeza, Alyssa Garma, Kyra Goff, Alexis Balann
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High School Division
1st Place: Kapaʻa High School
Hailey Hadley, Kai Ganir, Tiare Nunes, Ginger Nunes
2nd Place: Island School
Naia Char, Mia Javellana, Chloe Ayonon
3rd Place: Kapaʻa High School
Alia Russell, Isabella Omana, Shiloh Spencer, Milo Wilson
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The Grove Farm Foundation was proud to support this innovative program celebrating the creativity, teamwork, and leadership of Kaua‘i’s youth. When local students are given opportunities to create and lead, our entire community grows stronger.
Inspiring Our Youth at King Kaumuali‘i Elementary School
Do you get to play with animals? Why do you wear that hat? Can I drive that truck when I grow up? Second graders ask the best questions.
Last month, at King Kaumuali‘i Elementary School’s Career Day, our Grove Farm team had the opportunity to share about the many careers that are part of land stewardship and how important each job is to our community.
Through a lively game of Career Bingo, students were introduced to the types of roles that keep our community thriving. They learned about opportunities in farming and ranching, golf course operations at Puakea Golf Course, and food service at Puakea Grill. They heard about the engineers and surveyors at Kodani & Associates Engineers, contractors and water system operators at AJAR Inc., utility operators at Aqua Engineers, and tour and activity workers at Kaua‘i Backcountry Adventures, and more.
A strong, sustainable Kaua‘i depends on local talent finding meaningful pathways here at home. Mahalo to King Kaumuali‘i Elementary School for inviting us to be part of the day!
Traffic Advisory: Lane Shift on Kapule Highway
The future Ahukini Business Park is taking shape near the Līhuʻe Airport. The industrial park will provide much-needed space for our local businesses to grow, expand, and create new jobs for our community.
Due to ongoing construction activities, there will be a lane shift on Kapule Highway for the next six months. Both lanes will be shifted slightly towards the Līhue-bound lane between the Līhuʻe-side agriculture entrances and just before the Hanamāʻulu Bridge.
During this time, minor slowdowns may occur. Thank you for your kōkua!
A Hope-ful Trajectory to SpaceX
In last month’s Grove Farm newsletter, we highlighted 2023 Grove Farm Scholar Hope Newton, who is studying aerospace engineering at the University of Texas. While Hope was offered the prestigious internship at Boeing, her path has changed, and she will be spending her 2026 summer as an intern with SpaceX, a leading American aerospace manufacturer and space transport company.
Interning with SpaceX is a dream come true for Hope, and we wish her all the best in her pursuit. We are proud to support our local students as they pursue their dreams and explore new opportunities! Congratulations, Hope!