The Biodynamic Food Forests Project
Growing a Resilient Future in Hawaiian Acres
What is the Biodynamic Food Forests Project?
Hawaiian Acres is one of the most food-insecure areas in Hawai‘i, with nutrient-poor soil and a high reliance on imported foods. Many residents have struggled to grow fruit trees due to limited resources, challenging growing conditions, and a lack of access to soil amendments and fertilizers.
With the support of grant funding, Growing One Future, led by horticulturist Ava Libal, is launching the Biodynamic Food Forests Project to improve soil health, increase local food production, and provide hands-on education in sustainable farming practices.
Over the next 12 months, the project will:
✔️ Provide 325 fruit trees to residents of Hawaiian Acres.
✔️ Distribute high-quality soil amendments to improve tree survival and growth.
✔️ Offer hands-on education in orchard management, pest control, and soil health.
✔️ Conduct regular follow-ups to monitor tree growth and apply fertilizers.
✔️ Foster community resilience by promoting knowledge-sharing and long-term food security.
Why This Project Matters
Hawai‘i imports 85–90% of its food, making local communities vulnerable to supply chain disruptions. Additionally, 14% of Hawai‘i residents rely on SNAP benefits, highlighting the need for increased access to fresh, locally grown food.
Many residents of Hawaiian Acres have already made efforts to grow fruit trees but struggle due to nutrient-poor soil. This project will bridge the gap by providing the resources and knowledge needed to create thriving, biodynamic food forests that will nourish families for generations to come.
Key Project Goals:
🌱 Increase access to locally produced food for low-income residents.
🌱 Improve soil health using organic compost and amendments.
🌱 Reduce the impact of pests and disease through sustainable orchard management.
🌱 Promote environmental stewardship and educate residents on regenerative agriculture.
Follow Our Progress
🌱 We’ll be sharing project updates, participant stories, and measurable results along the way! Follow our Blog or check back here for updates and insights from the field.
🙌 Want to support our mission? Donations of tools, funds, or volunteer time are always welcome! Contact us at growingonefuture@gmail.com if interested.
Or Please donate to Growing One Future via PayPal. We are a 501(c)3 IRS recognized non-profit organization.
Project Timeline & Milestones
This project will be implemented over the course of a year, beginning with soil distribution and tree planting. Participants will receive ongoing support through workshops, hands-on training, and quarterly follow-ups to track tree health and progress. As trees mature, residents will continue maintaining their food forests, strengthening long-term food security and environmental sustainability in Hawaiian Acres.
Tracking Our Impact
Success will be measured through consistent monitoring of tree growth, fruit production, and overall tree health. Residents will receive guidance in orchard care and pest management, ensuring that their trees thrive. Community feedback and periodic assessments will help us refine and improve our approach as the project progresses.
About the Project Lead
This initiative is led by Ava Libal, an experienced horticulturist and advocate for sustainable agriculture. With a background in food forest development, orchard management, and soil health, Ava is dedicated to empowering residents with the resources and knowledge needed to build resilient food systems.
Grant Support
This project is made possible through funding from the Hawai‘i County Impact Grant Program, which supports initiatives that strengthen local agriculture, food security, and environmental stewardship. To learn more about the grant, visit the Hawai‘i County website: Impact Grants Program.