Bill > SB517

This bill establishes a Microbial Algae Soil Products Pilot Program to improve agricultural soil health in Hawaii by introducing microbial algae-based solutions to farming practices. The program will be administered by the Department of Agriculture and will target small to medium-sized farms (10-100 acres) that are experiencing soil health challenges, with a focus on organic farms and those producing high-value or diverse crops. The program will collaborate with the University of Hawaii's College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources to study and implement algae-based fertilizers, which have been shown to improve soil nutrition, water retention, and suppress harmful pathogens without using synthetic chemicals. A special fund will be created to support the program, with an initial appropriation of $1,500,000 for each of the fiscal years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027. The funds will be used for data collection, soil testing, equipment and supplies, educational outreach, and establishing program staff. The pilot program will require the Department of Agriculture to submit reports to the Legislature in 2026 and 2027, with recommendations for long-term implementation, and the special fund will be automatically dissolved on June 30, 2027, with any remaining balance returning to the general fund.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=517&year=2025