Bill > SB552

This bill establishes a comprehensive Healthy Soils Program within Hawaii's Department of Agriculture to address outdated soil assessment methods and promote agricultural sustainability. The program will integrate existing initiatives like compost and cover crop reimbursement programs, provide technical assistance and financial incentives to farmers, and update the state's soil rating system using the latest data from the United States Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service. The program aims to improve soil health by supporting practices that enhance carbon sequestration, water retention, and nutrient cycling, which will help Hawaii achieve its goals of net-negative carbon emissions by 2045 and strengthen food security. Key components include creating high-resolution digital soil maps, developing a standardized process for regularly updating soil data, and collaborating with multiple state and federal agencies. The department will be required to submit an annual report to the legislature detailing progress on soil data integration, mapping improvements, and recommendations for future policy changes. The bill appropriates funds for fiscal years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027 to support the program's implementation and provide financial incentives to farmers adopting regenerative agricultural practices.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=552&year=2026