WAIMEA — The CTAHR Tea Project will host “Tea 101: Tea Production & Processing Basics” led by Randy Hamasaki and Stuart Nakamoto from 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. April 26 at UH-CTAHR Mealani Research Station in Waimea.

The event is only offered once a year and sold out last year well in advance.

Crop diversification is one strategy for managing risk. Tea has potential as a new crop for Hawaii. Tea 101 is a workshop where participants undergo basic training in tea production and processing. They will also learn about the tea research being conducted at UH-Manoa – College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources (UH-CTAHR) Mealani Research Station in Waimea. Some of the topics include tea propagation, an introduction and market feasibility of Hawaii grown tea, the basic types of tea including tasting, tea varieties at the station and propagation, crop fertility management, pest management, pruning and harvesting tea, hand processing of tea, tea processing equipment and evaluation of processed tea.

Attendees are required to wear long pants and shoes, and should bring full sun sunscreen and other protection in case of showers and chilly weather protection. No pets and no smoking are allowed.

Space is limited to first 10 persons to pre-register; others will be on a waiting list for future sessions. The cost is $25 cash or check at the door. Call 887-6183 or email rth@hawaii.edu or snakamo@hawaii.edu to reserve a spot no later than April 19. Mealani Research Station is located at 64-289 Mamalahoa Highway on the east side of Waimea.