About

The 2018 Hawaii Farmer Needs Assessment Survey invited participants to identify and prioritize the barriers they face in increasing agricultural production.

Respondents were asked to select the most significant challenges and then rank them in order of importance. To analyze the data, a Ranked Choice Voting algorithm was applied, both at regional and statewide levels. This method allowed for a comprehensive understanding of the key barriers affecting farmers across different areas, helping to inform targeted solutions and policy recommendations.

The survey was open during summer 2018.

The State of Hawaii has set goals to double local food production by 2020 and 2030.

The purpose of this survey is to understand the barriers and needs of farmers related to increasing food production in Hawaii. Survey responses will help define the kinds of support, extension, training, research, and public policy that may best meet the needs of growers across the state.

Survey Results

Regional Results

Survey data was collected at a regional level. The map below shows the top 3 barriers to increasing food production by region across the state of Hawaii.

Statewide Results

• Farm Labor
• Land
• Capital

76% of survey respondents listed labor, land, or capital as one of their top three barriers.

• Farm Labor: Increased availability of farm labor
• Land: Access to more land
• Capital: Low-interest loans or grants for farm improvements or expansion

Statewide Ranked Choice Voting rounds example: