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Public meetings scheduled for Coral Reef Initiative

By Staff | Nov 8, 2012

The West Maui Coral Reef Initiative is one of 15 NRCS Landscape Conservation Initiatives targeting resource concerns on a regional basis.

WEST MAUI – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) announced a special sign-up for funds available to West Maui farmers, ranchers and foresters to install conservation practices through the West Maui Coral Reef Initiative.

NRCS Kahului Field Office staff will conduct public meetings to answer questions, as the second registration period will close Dec. 21, 2012.

West Maui farmers, ranchers and foresters are invited to learn about the Farm Bill Coral Reef Initiative on Wednesday, Nov. 14, at 6 p.m. at the West Maui Senior Center at 788 Pauoa St. along Lahainaluna Road.

The West Maui Coral Reef Initiative is one of 15 NRCS Landscape Conservation Initiatives addressing resource concerns on a regional basis.

In a typical example, an NRCS conservation specialist will meet at a landowner’s site to discuss production goals and identify conservation practices that can address site-specific resource concerns.

Applicants that meet certain eligibility requirements may receive funding assistance to install the practices.

This partnership between farmers and NRCS improves water quality and coral reef health by increasing stewardship practices that reduce and prevent sediment and nutrient runoff.

The initiative area covers the West Maui, Lahaina, Kahakuloa, Waihee, Wailuku, Waikapu and Maalaea districts.

Agricultural producers interested in learning more about the West Maui Coral Reef Initiative should visit the NRCS office at 77 Hookele St., Suite 202, in Kahului, or call 871-5500. Visit www.pia.nrcs.usda.gov for more information on NRCS programs and services.