Recently, a four acre parcel in Kilauea, located on Wai Koa Plantation, was leased to Malama Kaua`i for the purpose of establishing a community garden. Malama Kaua`i thanks residents Bill and Joan Porter, owners of Wai Koa, for their very generous contributions that are making this project possible. Also, a mahalo to the Wayne Rapozo Kama`aina Fund for the continued support on all of our agricultural projects, and the other projects sponsors listed on the adjacent materials / sponsorship list including: Falko Partners, Dan & Patricia Hempey, Ray Maki and Gary Seals.

Entrance to Community Garden	Proposed Phase I Layout

Plots are now available for families, individuals, businesses, and organizations that have a desire to grow nutritious foods for themselves and others, learn about organic gardening, connect with the `aina, and foster community. For people that are inexperienced, and for those that simply want to enhance their skills, workshops and training programs will be available on site. Local experts on composting and soil remediation, vermiculture, site design and permaculture, pest control, and other gardening topics have committed to contributing to the ongoing success of the project by being available to share their mana`o with both plot managers and the community at large.

A core group of certified permaculturists, long-time Kaua`i farmers, and garden enthusiasts are in the process of designing the front portion of the site. It will be a place for the whole `ohana, with special areas for the keiki. For all ages, it will be a space for creativity, learning, social bonding, and cultivating a relationship with the `aina. All are welcome to participate in the design and development of the site.

A community garden is a long-term investment in community food security. The Kilauea site will have a large food forest with a rich diversity of trees. Eventually, the goal is to cultivate enough abundance to supply fresh produce to the neediest in our community, as well as the local area seniors. The garden will also contribute to food security by preserving and perpetuating plant biodiversity. A wide array of native and introduced species will be cultivated, and the garden will host seed and plant exchanges.

Volunteers and donations of all kinds are needed to make this vision a reality. The most immediate needs are materials for fencing, organic soil inputs, a mower, tools, trees, working hands, and money. This is a true community effort, and it is going to take the generosity of many to create a place of beauty and delicious abundance.

To assist please contact Keone Kealoha at keone@malamakauai.org, 828-0685 x14