Jeff Ferguson at the MauiGrown Coffee Company Store table at the Maui AgFest & 4-H Livestock Fair.

The 12th annual Maui AgFest & 4-H Livestock Fair held at War Memorial Complex in Wailuku on June 1st showcased a cornucopia of Maui’s ag and livestock industry. Hosted by Maui County Farm Bureau in partnership with the Maui 4-H Livestock Program, this hugely popular event offered the perfect opportunity for residents and visitors to come and learn about our island’s agricultural community – past, present and future. MauiGrown Coffee was thrilled to be a part of this annual tradition as one of this year’s vendors showcasing the fruits of our labor.

This exciting annual event was truly a feast for the senses. Attendees got to see the full rainbow of Maui’s agricultural bounty on display at the Grown on Maui Farmers Market, experience a live 4-H Livestock Show with animals auctioned off to benefit the Maui 4-H youth and agricultural program, and visit with the numerous exhibits and informational booths. The awesome sounds of local bands livened up the entertainment stage. Keiki had a ball in the Keiki Zone complete with tractors on display, face painting, jugglers, stilt walkers, a magic show, a livestock exhibit and more.

Then, there was the food – fresh, delicious and local – featuring product vendors, food trucks and two signature events.

The Maui Legacy Farmers Pancake Breakfast was a heartfelt tribute to island farmers for their lasting contribution to Maui ag. This year’s honorees were Keoki Freeland, Arthur DePonte and the Uradomo Family.

The Grand Taste featured the culinary talents of 12 Maui chefs who buy local ingredients first and do their part to support our island’s thriving ag industry.

“Everyone had a great time at the MauiAg Fest, and adding 4-H Livestock was a perfect foil for what makes our island’s ag industry great,” said Jeff Ferguson co-owner of the MauiGrown Coffee Company Store in Lahaina. “But it was really the message woven throughout the event’s activities and attractions that was truly memorable. It is that we all need to do our part to support the local farmers and ranchers if we want to have a thriving ag industry in the future.”

A variety of 100 percent MAUI Origin Coffees were sold at MauiGrown Coffee Company Store’s table during the fair, featuring their exceptional coffee varietals – Yellow Caturra, Red Catuai, Typica and Maui Mokka – currently grown at the breathtaking residential community of Ka’anapali Coffee Farms in West Maui. The venue also gave Ferguson an opportunity to talk to coffee aficionados about what makes Maui’s coffee no ka ‘oi (the best).

“We encourage everyone to support our island’s farmers and ranchers by buying locally grown and raised products; promoting local products on restaurant menus; and supporting organizations, like the Maui County Farm Bureau, who continue to fight for the future of our island’s ag industry,” said Ferguson.

Stop by the MauiGrown Coffee Company Store to sample their award-winning coffees. They are located at 277 Lahainaluna Road in Lahaina, next to the historic Pioneer Mill Smokestack. Hours open are Monday through Saturday, 6:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. (closed Sunday). You can also order their coffees online at www.MauiGrownCoffee.com.

For a personal real estate showing of the Ka’anapali Coffee Farms agricultural community, please call Rohn T. Stark, PB, at (808) 870-5571, e-mail Rohn@PlatinumPropertiesHI.com or visit www.KaanapaliCoffeeFarms.com.