Hawaii has a special role to play. We have recognized in the last several years that we are the laboratory for this type of experimental farming. You can trace the genetic makeup of most corn grown in the U.S., and in many other places around the world, to Hawaii.The tiny island state 2,500 miles from the nearest continent is so critical to the nation’s modern corn-growing business that the industry’s leading companies all have farms here, growing new varieties genetically engineered for desirable traits like insect and drought resistance.

The Islands of Hawaii import 90% of their Food, much of it is Genetically Modified. Monsanto, BASF, DOW Agri-Sciences, Syngenta and Du Pont Pioneer conduct field trials and grow GMO Seed for export on 24,000 acres on Hawaiian Islands. – they export some 10 million pounds of seed annually. What is Genetically engineered on the Islands is sent back to Farmers and Ranchers in the United States to further perpetuate this alarming cycle.

SHAKA is working with local groups such as Maui Tomorrow, Food Security Hawaii, Maui’s Green Future and many others to work towards Food Security and Sustainable Farming.
Assessing possible health impacts of agrochemical operations in our islands is part of SHAKA’s continued efforts to fulfill the mandates of the moratorium. SHaka is closely evaluating and working with Mahi Pono to assure their promise to the community is carried out.