Business Details
Your Partner in Agricultural Innovation in Hawaii
We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing agricultural science and technology to support sustainable farming practices in Hawaii and beyond. Our team of researchers, educators, and agricultural specialists works year-round to develop innovative solutions for crop production, disease resistance, and environmental stewardship. With two research stations in Kunia and Maunawili on O'ahu, we focus on tropical crops like cacao, coffee, and tropical hardwoods while maintaining state-of-the-art laboratory and educational facilities. Our Seeds4Tomorrow program provides hands-on learning opportunities for students through internships and community outreach initiatives.We collaborate with local farmers, universities, and government agencies to address pressing agricultural challenges while preserving Hawaii's unique ecological heritage. Our financial operations are managed transparently with dedicated accounting staff overseeing vendor payments and donor contributions. As a tax-exempt organization, we rely on charitable donations to fund our research and educational programs that benefit both current and future generations of agricultural professionals.
Services
Agrivoltaic Research
Cacao Research
Coffee Research
Forestry Research
Tropical Fruit Crops
Education Programs
Internship Opportunities
Community Outreach
Donation Programs
Vendor Payments
Highlights and features
- We conduct cutting-edge agricultural research in tropical crops and sustainable systems
- Our team includes PhD scientists and experienced agricultural specialists
- We maintain state-of-the-art research facilities in optimal tropical growing conditions
- Our Seeds4Tomorrow program provides hands-on educational opportunities for students
- We develop practical solutions for local and global agricultural challenges
Services
Agrivoltaic Research
We develop integrated solar energy and agricultural systems that optimize land use while maintaining crop production. Our research focuses on shade-tolerant crops that thrive under solar panels, creating dual-use systems that generate clean energy and food simultaneously. This innovative approach helps address both energy and agricultural sustainability challenges in tropical environments.
Cacao Research
Our cacao research program develops disease-resistant varieties adapted to Hawaii's growing conditions. We study optimal cultivation practices, post-harvest processing, and value-added product development for the local chocolate industry. Our work supports sustainable cacao farming through genetic improvement and best management practices tailored to tropical climates.
Coffee Research
We focus on developing coffee varieties resistant to leaf rust and other diseases affecting Hawaiian coffee crops. Our research includes studying cultivation techniques, soil management, and processing methods to improve coffee quality and yield. We work closely with local farmers to implement sustainable coffee production systems.
Forestry Research
Our forestry program develops disease-resistant tropical hardwoods like Acacia koa. We study sustainable forest management practices and conduct breeding programs to preserve native tree species with ecological and cultural significance. Our research supports reforestation efforts and timber production in tropical environments.
Tropical Fruit Crops
We research cultivation techniques and variety development for tropical fruits including bananas, papayas, and lychee. Our program focuses on disease resistance, yield improvement, and post-harvest handling to enhance commercial viability. We develop best practices for tropical fruit production in Hawaii's unique growing conditions.
People
Robbie Melton
Executive Director
Robbie Melton leads our agricultural research initiatives with extensive experience in nonprofit management and sustainable development programs across the Pacific region.
Alice Tupou
Assistant Director, Finance and Human Resources
Alice Tupou manages financial operations and human resources with an MBA background, ensuring efficient administration and compliance with nonprofit standards.
Michael Kaufmann
Assistant Director, Facilities
Michael Kaufmann oversees facility operations and infrastructure development, maintaining optimal research conditions at our O'ahu-based agricultural stations.
Ming-Li Wang
Head of Molecular Biology Program
Dr. Ming-Li Wang leads molecular biology research, applying genetic techniques to develop disease-resistant crop varieties for Hawaii's agricultural sector.
Wendy Rosen
Education Program Coordinator
Wendy Rosen manages K-12 and community outreach programs, connecting students with hands-on agricultural science experiences through our Seeds4Tomorrow initiative.
Questions
What is Hawai'i Agriculture Research Center's primary mission?
We support sustainable agriculture through scientific research, education programs, and community outreach initiatives focused on tropical crops and farming systems.
What research areas does HARC specialize in?
We focus on agrivoltaic systems, cacao, coffee, tropical hardwoods, and fruit crops research at our O'ahu-based research stations.
How can students get involved with HARC?
Our Seeds4Tomorrow program offers summer internships and educational opportunities for high school students interested in agricultural science.
How can I support HARC's agricultural research?
We accept tax-deductible donations to fund our research programs and accept vendor payments for agricultural services and supplies.
Where are HARC's research facilities located?
We operate two research stations in Kunia and Maunawili on O'ahu, Hawaii, with state-of-the-art laboratory and educational facilities.
Reviews (1)
Edward Lui
Aug 26, 2020
Report
They do very good work here. The research is extremely valuable for maintaining the sustainability of agriculture and our food supply. This grassroots organization has been doing this for a century.
