Farm Programs & Local Resources
Last Updated: March 2026 | Always verify with your local USDA office. Report an error
This tiny county occupies the Kalaupapa Peninsula on Molokai's north shore, surrounded by the world's highest sea cliffs rising over 3,000 feet. The isolated peninsula is accessible only by mule trail, small aircraft, or hiking the steep cliff path.
Agricultural activity is extremely limited due to the county's small size, isolation, and historical significance as a former leprosy settlement. Small-scale subsistence farming and gardening occurs primarily for local consumption by the few remaining residents.
Quick Facts
| Region | Molokai Peninsula |
| Top Commodities | Vegetables, Tropical fruits |
Your Local USDA Offices
Your nearest USDA Service Center houses both NRCS (conservation programs like EQIP and CSP) and FSA (loans, disaster assistance, farm numbers). Here are the offices serving Kalawao County.
NRCS Office (EQIP, CSP, conservation)
Kahua Center, 15 Kaunakakai Pl, Kaunakakai, HI 96748
FSA Office (loans, disaster, farm numbers)
77 Hookele Street, 2nd Floor, Kahului, HI 96732
Office info is from USDA’s published directory. Call ahead to confirm hours before visiting.
What to do when you call: Ask to schedule a meeting with a conservation planner (for EQIP/CSP) or a loan officer (for FSA programs). Mention the type of operation you run and what improvements you're considering.
Programs for Kalawao County Operations
Based on Kalawao County's agricultural profile, these programs are most relevant:
Limited programs focus on soil conservation and maintaining the few existing agricultural plots within the national historical park boundaries. Emphasis on preserving traditional Hawaiian farming practices and supporting subsistence agriculture for the small resident population.
Not sure which programs fit? Run our free eligibility screener. Two minutes, personalized action packet.
Local Conservation Priorities
Each county's NRCS Local Working Group sets the conservation practices that score highest for EQIP funding. Knowing your county's priorities before you apply can significantly improve your ranking.
How to find your county's priorities:
- Call your local NRCS office and ask: "What practices is the Local Working Group prioritizing this year?"
- Ask which EQIP ranking pool your operation fits (there may be separate pools for livestock, cropland, forestry, etc.)
- Check your state NRCS website for published ranking criteria
Your Next Steps in Kalawao County
- Run the eligibility screener: Free Screener
- Find your USDA Service Center: Service Center Locator
- Read the Hawaii guide: Hawaii Farm Programs Guide
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