Gov. Linda Lingle has released a $250,000 grant-in-aid to the Hawai'i Farm Bureau Federation to be used for agricultural research and market development.

HFBF is a non-profit organization made up of farming families who are committed to analyzing problems and formulating action plans to ensure the healthy future of agriculture in our state.

In a news release issued by the governor's office, Lingle said, "The research facilitated by this grant will promote the growth of Hawai'i's agricultural industry and contribute to the overall strength of our state economy."

Past HFBF research has included studies on the development of disease-resistant crops and potential niche crops like blueberries, and were performed in partnership with academic and research centers in Hawai'i.

HFBF also co-sponsored the Hawai'i Agricultural Theft Study with the Hawai'i Department of Agriculture in 2005.