Ouli Farms Donates 6,000 Pounds of Produce, Plants 5,000 Sandalwood Trees
Ouli Farms, a sprawling 840-acre community cast north of Mauna Kea and Hapuna Beach Resorts, has donated over 6,000 pounds of produce to local food pantries. This generous act follows a recent blessing ceremony held at the farm, which was attended by renowned chefs and a local spiritual leader.
The blessing, conducted by Kahu Danny Akaka, was a significant event for Ouli Farms. It marked the start of a new era for the development, which was originally owned by the Rockefeller family. The ceremony was also attended by esteemed chefs Roy Yamaguchi and Alan Wong, who lent their culinary expertise to the occasion. Lunch was served by Chef Patrick Heymann of Ouli Farms, featuring dishes like panzanella salad and beet salad.
Ouli Farms currently employs 28 full-time staff who tend to a variety of native trees and crops. These include bananas, mangoes, and oranges, among others. The farm plans to expand its operations by planting 5,000 sandalwood trees, aiming to restore the area's once-lost sandalwood forests. This ambitious project is part of Ouli Farms' commitment to sustainable and responsible farming practices.
The development plans to include approximately 140 homes, each with its own active farm for food production. This unique design will allow residents to grow their own produce, fostering a sense of community and self-sufficiency. The development will also encompass around 200 acres of active farming land, ensuring a steady supply of fresh produce for the community.
Ouli Farms' recent donation and planned sandalwood tree planting demonstrate its dedication to giving back to the community and preserving Hawaii's natural heritage. The upcoming homes, each with their own farm, promise a sustainable and connected way of living. The blessing ceremony, attended by prominent figures, signifies the farm's importance and potential impact on the local area.
