Workshop Series

Next Session: 15th till 24th of August, 2022

Here at Big Island Farms, we’re offering an exciting and immersive workshop intensive program focused on the fields of permaculture and tropical agriculture. This program is a unique opportunity to develop our awareness of human impacts as a part of the global ecosystem and learn how to become stewards of the land and benefactors to earth through direct practice. We will use the basics of regenerative design to deepen our understanding of the processes needed to restore bio-diverse and resilient ecosystems that harmoniously integrate humanity’s needs with the natural world. Our ten-day workshop intensive program will give students hands-on experience in the fields of permaculture and tropical agriculture. Local experts, as well as our on-site staff will facilitate your classes. We aim to provide a well-rounded curriculum that will provide the foundational knowledge to enter into the wonderful world of organic and sustainable agriculture.

Organic Agriculture Internship

Next Session: 10th of July to 4th of August, 2023

This program concentrates on providing interns with a hands-on introduction to a variety of organic gardening practices. We will utilize the food forests, distinct gardens, orchards, and market gardens as our teaching guides. Our aim is to strengthen the understanding of permaculture practices by providing a hands-on farming experience that allows interns to participate in the process of growing, maintaining, and harvesting crops using sustainable practices. They will also learn how to cook and create nourishing foods during their farm-to-table classes. Lessons and workshops will be taught daily, by local experts and our experienced directors to help provide a more in-depth understanding of essential agricultural concepts. Interns will be required to complete an organic ag-related research project at the course. Our directors will help facilitate their research and assist with the practical application of their findings. There is also the possibility to engage in local restoration projects located on the Big Island.

Permaculture Design Certification

Next Session: 14th to 28th of January, 2023

The Permaculture Design Certification Course (PDC) is a 72-hour minimum course. The Hawaiian 2 week intensive Permaculture Course includes 8 extra hours to allow for practicums, workshops, tours, and permaculture farm experiences (total 80h). The Permaculture Certificate is globally recognized throughout the world. The holder of a Permaculture Design certificate has achieved a working understanding of ecologically based site design, planning, and management as well as an understanding of principles, strategies, and techniques available to inspire directions toward community resiliency, economic stability, and personal growth.

Throughout the entire course, you will be engaged in learning and experiencing an empowering way of living in the world, surrounded and supported by like-minded people and instructors. Our goal is to make you a part of our farm community (Ohana). Activities may include making an “A-frame,” laying out and digging a water harvesting contour swale, sheet mulching, pruning, seed planting, plant propagation, bed preparation, compost pile making, water harvesting techniques, natural building, herbalism, Hawaiian culture, clearing existing food forest, community garden service and more.

Join us for a Farm Tour!

Experience a privately-guided tour that includes fresh fruit tasting!

The gardens contain over 200 unique species of edible and medicinal plants including: Coffee, Banana, Papaya, Cassava, Taro, Ginger, Turmeric, Cacao, Avocado, Breadfruit, Coconut, Sugar Can, Sweet Potatoes, Kukui, Ti (KI), and a wide variety of Bamboos just to name a few.

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