Posted on: Saturday, September 4, 2004
Registry to improve access to data, services
By Sean Hao
Advertiser Staff Writer
Hawai'i's minority farmers will get better access to farm programs and services with the help of a new federal registry.
Advertiser library photo "By signing on to the register, minority farmers may receive materials, newsletters and program announcements from USDA agencies," said U.S. Rep. Ed Case, D-Hawai'i, a member of the U.S. House Agriculture Committee. "This will help farmers and ranchers to learn about USDA programs and services, which include farm ownership and operating loans, marketing loans, conservation, and housing and rural business."
People wishing to join the register must sign and date an application that provides their name and address. The register application is available by calling the 'Aiea USDA Service Center at 483-8600 ext. 2, or online at www.fsa.usda.gov/pas /publications/mfr/default.htm.
Reach Sean Hao at shao@honoluluadvertiser.com or 525-8093.
Government organizations, universities and community-based groups typically offer outreach services to certain ethnic groups, but often lack contact information, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Farm Service Agency, which created the registry. Those registering also authorize the USDA to share their contact information with USDA-approved groups.
Nalo Farms and owner Dean Okimoto could benefit from a new federal registry designed to help farmers and ranchers learn about U.S. Department of Agriculture programs and services.
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Hawai'i farmers by race in 2002
Source: Census of Agriculture |
