Story perspectives

Maui Farms Struggle Amid Sugar Plantation Closures

10/23/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The decline of large-scale sugar and pineapple production on Maui harms smaller family farms.
Warren Watanabe of Maui County Farm Bureau says plantation closures limit resources for local farmers.
The Hawai‘i Farm Project, which acquired Maui Gold, faces feral animals and drought and seeks aid from the Agribusiness Development Corporation for infrastructure and pest control.
Maui Gold is innovating by processing imperfect fruit and partnering with cooperatives to boost output.

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Story summary

The decline of large-scale sugar and pineapple production on Maui harms smaller family farms.
Warren Watanabe of Maui County Farm Bureau says plantation closures limit resources for local farmers.
The Hawai‘i Farm Project, which acquired Maui Gold, faces feral animals and drought and seeks aid from the Agribusiness Development Corporation for infrastructure and pest control.
Maui Gold is innovating by processing imperfect fruit and partnering with cooperatives to boost output.