Local conservationists received a significant nod of approval this past Thursday, with the Kaua’i Department of Water (DOW) and the Soil and Water Conservation Districts celebrating the 2025 Water Conservationists of the Year. Noting the fundamental significance of water, DOW's Manager and Chief Engineer Joe Tait stated, "Water is the lifeblood of our island, and everyone should be inspired to use it wisely for future generations to come," a sentiment reflecting the urgency of sustainable practices on the island.
According to a press release by DOW, GoFarm Hawaiʻi emerged victorious, bagging the award from the East Kauaʻi SWCD for its innovative farmer training program. This comprehensive initiative has churned out fourteen cohorts of new farmers who are versed in cost-efficient and environmentally friendly agricultural techniques. "We focus on everyday methods that conserve water and nurture living systems in our soils, including minimal tilling, cover cropping, rotating fields, using drip irrigation with surface water, and regularly testing soil to ensure we water only when needed," explained Jin-Wah Lau, a farm coach at GoFarm Hawaiʻi, in a statement obtained by the Department of Water.
Meanwhile, over on the west side of Kauaʻi, Iwikua grabbed the spotlight as the West Kauaʻi SWCD's Water Conservationist of the Year. They've been lauded for their commitment to reintroducing ancient wisdom through the traditional ahupuaʻa system and infusing it with modern-day sustainable agricultural practices. Josh Mori, Executive Director of Iwikua, relayed in a statement obtained by the Department of Water, "At Iwikua, we strive to strengthen the community’s connection to kuleana and the function of ahupuaʻa. We offer gardening support, agroforestry seminars, aquaponics programs, and community produce sales. We also offer wellness initiatives," as stated on the same press release.
The significance of such awards and recognitions from the East and West Kauaʻi Soil and Water Conservation Districts is multifaceted. Tasked with assisting landowners in maintaining the delicate balance of soil and water resources, these entities are a critical link in promoting sustainable development and environmental stewardship. The districts, which are part of a national network of nearly 3,000, focus on minimizing the environmental impact of farming by improving water use efficiency and controlling soil and water erosion. This balance is essential to the ecological health of Hawaiʻi. Those seeking further details on the awards or wishing to learn more about water conservation efforts can contact the Department of Water at 808-245-5461 or via email at [email protected], according to the DOW.
