MFSN Grower's Report: Recover, Prepare & Plan Ahead | September 2026
MFSN GROWER'S REPORT
SEPTEMBER 2026 | ISSUE 03
We know the past few weeks have been difficult for many farmers. Hurricane Lala brought heavy rain, wind, and storm impacts across our community, and many of you are still assessing damage, cleaning up, and figuring out what comes next.
With the possibility of more storms ahead, now is also a good time to think about what we can do before the next one. MFSN is here to help you recover, prepare, and make a plan to reduce potential damage to your farm.
How MFSN Can Help:
Farm CoachiWork one-on-one with a coach to identify vulnerabilities, plan ahead, and connect with resources. FREE coaching is available on Maui, Molokaʻi, and Lānaʻi.
Wood Chipping: Turn storm debris and woody material into useful mulch.
FREE Cardboard Delivery for Sheet Mulching: STARTED AGAIN! We have started distributing cardboard again! This a great to use with with your wood chips.
Wellness Events: Join us at upcoming wellness and community events designed to give you a chance to connect, recharge, and take care of yourself.
We're here to help you recover today—and prepare for what's next. No one grows alone.
Heads Up - Part 1
Get Ready for NRCS 2027
If you're interested in working with NRCS (Natural Resources Conservation Service) for 2027 conservation planning or financial assistance such as EQIP, now is a good time to get started.
Step 1 — Contact NRCS
Call Jason Hew at (808) 871-5500, ext. 3
Tell him:
"I'm a Maui farmer and I'm interested in working with NRCS to develop a conservation plan and determine whether I qualify for financial assistance such as EQIP."
Step 2 — Establish Your Farm Record with FSA
If you're interested in financial assistance, you'll need a USDA Farm Number associated with your land.
FSA establishes your farm record and verifies information such as:
Who owns or controls the land
Who operates the farm
Farm and tract information
Entity and eligibility information
Conservation compliance
Other requirements that may apply
NRCS uses these FSA records when determining eligibility for financial assistance.
Don't wait until the NRCS funding deadline to establish your FSA record. Get this done early.
USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) 77 Hoʻohele St., Suite 201 Kahului, HI 96732 (808) 871-5500, ext. 2
Step 3 — Need Help Gathering Your Documentation?
MFSN FREE Farm Coaching can assist with gathering and organizing the farm records and supporting documentation needed for this process. Farm Coaching is available on Maui, Molokaʻi, and Lānaʻi.
Step 4 — NRCS Farm Site Visit
Once your farm records and documentation are in place, NRCS will schedule a site visit to your farm to assess your operation and discuss your conservation needs.
MFSN Coaches can attend the site visit with you. Your coach can provide an additional layer of support as you discuss your farm's needs, goals, and potential conservation practices with NRCS.
Heads Up - Part 2
Review Your Agricultural Use Assessment
September is a good time to review your property's agricultural use assessment and make sure your current farm activities are accurately reflected.
The deadline for non-dedication agricultural use assessments is December 31.
Not sure what you should be looking at? MFSN's FREE Farm Coaching can help you understand the process and connect you with the appropriate resources.
Tool of the month
HFU Farm Apprentice Mentoring (FAM)
Thinking about growing your farm knowledge, skills, or business? Now is a good time to look into HFU’s Farm Apprentice Mentoring (FAM) Program.
FAM combines hands-on farm learning, experienced farmer mentorship, business development, and a supportive community of farmers. The program is designed for aspiring and existing farmers looking to strengthen their skills and build a more sustainable farm operation.
2026/27 FAM applications are now open. Applications are due October 15, 2026.
Hawaiʻi Agricultural Convention
The Hawaiʻi Agricultural Convention is coming up this November 9 - 10 at Waikoloa, Hawaiʻi. It’s a great opportunity to connect with farmers, agricultural organizations, industry leaders, and others working to strengthen Hawaiʻi’s food and farming systems.
MFSN RESOURCES
MFSN Services
TOOL LIBRARY
Access farm tools and resources without the cost of purchasing everything yourself. MFSN’s Tool Library provides farmers with equipment to support daily farm operations, maintenance, and soil-building practices. Members can borrow tools when they need them for a donation-based cost.
WOMEN IN AG
"Show up, Speak Up, Be Heard"
Growing confidence & voice for women farmers in Maui County. Learn, find, trust, and use your voice in ways that feel authentic and empowering. Join us in growing your Voice.
FREE CARDBOARD
Starting in September, MFSN will be distributing free cardboard to farmers. Sheet mulching can help suppress weeds, retain moisture, protect soil, and build healthier growing areas, while giving used cardboard another useful purpose on the farm.
Every local farm contributes to something bigger.
Maui County growers help strengthen food security, steward agricultural lands, support local families, and build resilience for future generations.
Whether you're stewarding a garden bed or one hundred acres, your work matters.
Mahalo for everything you do.
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