To become stewards of the land (Malama Ka ‘Aina) by cultivating crops as well as mind, body, and spirit.
Goals
Techniques
Implement modern design with the mindfulness of ancient holistic growing methods.
Integration
Producing valuable resources for, and utilizing the unique talents of, the community in a comprehensive dependency cycle.
Next session: July 15th – August 9th, 2024
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.
Workshops and Activities
Cultural Immersion
You will have the opportunity to learn about the fascinating and complex history of Hawaiian culture. Interns will participate in cultural ceremonies and activities facilitated by respected Hawaiian locals.
Food Forest Design
A major part of the internship will be the design and implementation of a food forest. Throughout the course, the interns will learn and develop the skills to create a food forest from the ground up using the principles of permaculture.
Ulu Mau Púa Nui
We will spend the day volunteering with this local no profit to learn about Hawaiia’s traditional agricultural practices and techniques.
Lā'u Lap'au (Medicinal Plant)
Interns will learn the about ancient traditional Hawaiian medicine as well as the properties of major medicinal plants from the legendary Uncle Ikaikaika who has been practicing and teaching La'au Lapa'au for over 40 years.
Farm to Table
All interns will enjoy delicious vegetarian meals prepared by our on-site chef with fresh fruits and vegetables from our farm.
Building Community
During your stay with us we truly aim to become a big Ohana (family) — our goal is to provide a safe and welcoming environment where everyone can learn and feel free to be themselves no matter where you come from.
Mushroom Workshop
In this course, we will explore the magical world of mushrooms and mycelium. Learn from expert Adam Aharon, and we will cover everything about fungi from what it is, it’s life cycle, its importance, and how to cultivate our very own mushroom from spores.
and many more!
Native Forest Exploration
Journey through the enchanted beauty of Kalopa State Park, one of Hawaii’s Ancient Old Growth Forest. It is home to many rare and endangered plants such as the Loulu Palm and rare native hibiscus. As we wander through forest we will take the time to ground ourselves and show reverence as we walk among majestic flora that predate human settlement on the island.
Course Information
What will students do?
- Design and create a food forest using the principles of permaculture
- Conduct and present director-supervised research on a topic of choice related to organic agriculture (companion planting, medicinal plants, soil regeneration, agroforestry, etc.)
- Understand and implement regenerative organic farming techniques
- Tropical Plant identification
- Build and regenerate soil
What are some goals?
- Develop a strong foundational understanding of organic and regenerative agriculture
- Enhance understanding of the natural world through permaculture exploration
- To become stewards of the land (Malama Ka ‘Aina) by cultivating crops as well as their mind, body, and spirit.
- Develop the mindset to live a more regenerative and sustainable lifestyle
- Promote leadership skills
- Inspire personal growth
What topics will be covered?
- Principles of Permaculture Design
- Organic Agriculture
- Tropical Agroforestry
- Ecological Economics
- Soil & Water Conservation
- Edible Ecosystems
- Orchard Management
- Plant Physiology
- Edible Ecosystems
- Soil Composition
- Composting
- Apiculture
- Plant Identification & Medicinal Usage
Receiving College Credit?
Because this is an educational internship, many of our interns have received college credits during their time with us at Big Islands Farm. With our diverse and extensive curriculum, interns have received course credits in organic agriculture, horticulture, environmental science, and more.
We are more than happy to work with your institution to meet your academic needs. Feel free to contact us to discuss how we can fulfill your course credit requirements.
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#FoodForThought
While agriculture prospers all other arts alike are vigorous and strong, but where the land is forced to remain desert, the spring that feeds the other arts is dried up.
-Xenophon