- Hawai‘i Community College trains students in Korean natural farming to revitalize soil naturally.
- The program focuses on using Indigenous microorganisms and fermented plant-based fertilizers.
- Future plans include expanding sustainable livestock management through natural pig pens.
Hawai‘i Community College’s agriculture program is at the forefront of sustainable farming, teaching students the principles of Korean natural farming (KNF) to restore soil health without synthetic inputs.
Beyond crop production, the college is looking to extend KNF techniques into livestock management. Plans are underway to implement sustainable pig pens that utilize natural composting methods, reducing waste and odor while improving soil fertility.
Sowing Sustainability: Hawai‘i College Champions Korean Natural Farming
Korean natural farming is transforming the way students at Hawai‘i Community College approach agriculture. By focusing on natural, locally available resources, the program encourages self-sufficiency and environmental responsibility. Instead of relying on synthetic fertilizers, students create their own nutrient-rich inputs using fermented plant juices and Indigenous microorganisms.
This hands-on learning experience allows students to witness firsthand how natural soil restoration works. Assistant professor Lew Nakamura emphasizes that while KNF requires patience, the long-term benefits far outweigh conventional methods. Graduates of the program have gone on to apply these techniques across Hawai‘i, helping to revive farmland depleted by industrial agriculture.
A unique aspect of KNF is its adaptability—not just for crop production but also for livestock management. The college is planning to implement deep-litter pig pens that naturally compost waste, reducing environmental impact while creating rich, organic material for farming. This sustainable approach ensures healthier animals and nutrient-dense soil.
As climate change and soil degradation threaten global food security, initiatives like Hawai‘i Community College’s agriculture program offer a promising alternative. By combining traditional knowledge with modern applications, students are helping to shape a greener, more resilient future for Hawai‘i’s farmlands.
Hawai‘i Community College’s dedication to Korean natural farming reflects a growing movement toward regenerative agriculture. By empowering students with sustainable techniques, the program is fostering a new generation of eco-conscious farmers who prioritize soil health, biodiversity, and self-sufficiency.
“The soil is the great connector of lives, the source and destination of all.” — Wendell Berry
