(BIVN) – For the second year, the Hawai‘i Island New Farmer and Rancher Expo was held, bringing together emerging producers with non-profit, private, and government resource organizations, as well as area buyers and experienced farmers.

The two day expo, held on August 10 and August 11 at Aunty Sally Kaleohano’s Lu‘au Hale in Hilo, provided participants “with an understanding of all aspects involved in establishing a viable commercial farm business on Hawai‘i Island,” organizers said.

Financing, crop selection, labor issues, new farmer training programs, food safety, pest control, and non-traditional farming methods were some of the topics covered in panel discussions and presentations. Experienced farmers and local buyers shared valuable information.

The event is sponsored by AgriLogic Consulting, Pacific Gateway Center, and The Kohala Center, with a grant provided by the USDA Risk Management Agency.