A fully operational taro industry provides job opportunities, minimizes economic risk to growers, and complements the subsistence lifestyle of Molokai's residents.

Reason for Need

Hawaii consumes 5.7 million pounds of taro, at a value of $12 million dollars each year, of which 98% is produced locally. In the last two years, the price of value-added taro products has increased by 21%, indicating that there is a shortage of supply. Due to the high economic risks of growing taro, however, current growers have been reluctant to increase their production. If these risks can be decreased through research, technical support, and cost-effective marketing strategies, the potential for establishing a successful taro industry on Moloka'i is great. Vast tracts of ancient taro paddies on the island's lush East End are still intact, and these lands could become productive again.

EC Support

Through EC funding the association was able to acquire various equipment needed in the taro industry, including a taro washer, weedeater, chain saw, and a shredder chipper. In addition, the EC has funded the purchase of a tractor to be used by the association.