Bylaws

Section 1: Name

The name of this organization shall be the Hawai‘i Growers Association (HGA).

Section 2: Purpose & Mission

The Hawai‘i Growers Association is dedicated to:

• Advancing sustainable agriculture that prioritizes local farmers, environmental responsibility, and food security.
• Promoting regenerative farming methods, including agroforestry, soil health management, and water conservation.
• Ensuring economic opportunities for small farmers by advocating for equitable agricultural policies.
• Protecting land and water rights by supporting local control over agricultural resources.
• Fostering education and mentorship programs that teach sustainable and modern farming techniques.
• Advocating for fair market access for local farmers, including direct-to-consumer sales, cooperative models, and protection from corporate monopolization.

Section 1: Eligibility

Membership is open to:

• Farmers, ranchers, and growers in Hawai‘i.
• Agricultural cooperatives, educators, and community members supporting local farming initiatives.

Section 2: Membership Categories

• General Members – Individuals directly involved in farming, ranching, or agricultural production.
• Sustainability Members – Those practicing or advocating for environmentally responsible farming methods.
• Allied Members – Organizations, businesses, and professionals who support local agriculture but are not direct growers.

Section 3: Voting Rights

• General and Sustainability Members have full voting rights on policy decisions.
• Allied Members may participate in discussions but do not have voting rights on farmer-specific issues.

Section 1: Board of Directors

The Board shall consist of:

• Farmers (at least 50%) to ensure the organization remains grower-led.
• Sustainability Advocates with expertise in soil health, water conservation, and regenerative agriculture.
• Community & Policy Advocates to provide expertise on legal, environmental, and economic matters.

Section 2: Leadership Positions

• President: Leads organizational strategy and policy advocacy.
• Vice President: Oversees education, sustainability programs, and outreach.
• Treasurer: Manages financial affairs and funding efforts.
• Secretary: Records meetings, maintains membership records, and handles communications.

Section 3: Advisory Council

A group of agricultural experts, land stewards, and industry specialists shall provide guidance on:

• Sustainable agriculture and environmental conservation
• Agricultural policy and economic development
• Water and land use rights

Section 1: Education & Mentorship

• Develop workshops on regenerative agriculture, soil health, and sustainable farming.
• Create mentorship programs for young and beginning farmers.

Section 2: Policy & Advocacy

• Protect local farmers from corporate monopolization and harmful legislation.
• Ensure fair licensing and permitting for small growers.
• Support land and water rights issues affecting agricultural communities.

Section 3: Market Access & Sustainability

• Advocate for direct-to-consumer sales and cooperative distribution models.
• Support sustainable practices that align with Hawai‘i’s food security goals.
• Promote policies that prioritize small and independent farmers.

Section 1: General Meetings

• Held quarterly to update members on policy, programs, and initiatives.

Section 2: Voting & Decision-Making

• Major decisions require a majority vote of eligible voting members.
• Policy changes require a ⅔ majority vote from the Board.

• Amending the Bylaws requires a ⅔ vote of the Board and ratification by the membership.