The Plantation Economy The Plantation Economy Past, Present and Future.

The Plantation EconomyThe Plantation Economy

Past, Present and FuturePast, Present and Future

Plantation agriculture fueled transportation and Plantation agriculture fueled transportation and communication routes while accelerating communication routes while accelerating environmental changes.environmental changes.

Environmental change in the Pacific has been well Environmental change in the Pacific has been well documented since the 1880sdocumented since the 1880s

The first successful sugarcane plantation was The first successful sugarcane plantation was started at Koloa, Kauai in 1835. Its first harvest in started at Koloa, Kauai in 1835. Its first harvest in 1837 produced 2 tons of raw sugar, which sold for 1837 produced 2 tons of raw sugar, which sold for $200. Other pioneers, predominantly from the United $200. Other pioneers, predominantly from the United States, soon began growing sugarcane on the States, soon began growing sugarcane on the islands of Hawaii, Maui, and Oahu. islands of Hawaii, Maui, and Oahu.

Early sugar planters shared many problems: Early sugar planters shared many problems: shortages of water and labor, trade barriers, and the shortages of water and labor, trade barriers, and the lack of markets for their sugar. Together with lack of markets for their sugar. Together with Hawaii's isolated oceanic location, these problems Hawaii's isolated oceanic location, these problems created a spirit of cooperation among the planters created a spirit of cooperation among the planters that continues today. that continues today.

Koloa KauaiKoloa Kauai

Between 1852 and the end of World War II, Between 1852 and the end of World War II, labor shortages were eased by bringing in labor shortages were eased by bringing in contract workers from Europe, North contract workers from Europe, North America, and Asia. America, and Asia.

Of the nearly 385,000 workers that came, Of the nearly 385,000 workers that came, many thousands stayed to become a part of many thousands stayed to become a part of Hawaii's unique ethnic mix. Hawaii's unique ethnic mix.

Pioneer sugar planters solved water Pioneer sugar planters solved water shortages in dry, leeward fields by building shortages in dry, leeward fields by building irrigation systems that included aqueducts irrigation systems that included aqueducts (the first in 1856), artesian wells (the first in (the first in 1856), artesian wells (the first in 1879), and tunnels and mountain wells (the 1879), and tunnels and mountain wells (the first in 1898). These irrigation systems first in 1898). These irrigation systems enabled the planters to grow sugarcane on enabled the planters to grow sugarcane on more than 100,000 acres of arid land. more than 100,000 acres of arid land.

Major trade barriers were eliminated by the 1876 Major trade barriers were eliminated by the 1876 Treaty of Reciprocity between the United States Treaty of Reciprocity between the United States and the Kingdom of Hawaii. and the Kingdom of Hawaii.

Through the treaty, the U.S. received a coaling Through the treaty, the U.S. received a coaling station at Pearl Harbor and Hawaii's sugar station at Pearl Harbor and Hawaii's sugar planters, tariff (tax) free entry into U.S. markets for planters, tariff (tax) free entry into U.S. markets for their sugar. their sugar.

This market was strengthened with the U.S. This market was strengthened with the U.S. annexation of Hawaii in 1898 after the Spanish-annexation of Hawaii in 1898 after the Spanish-American War. American War.

By 1898, production had grown to 225,000 tons By 1898, production had grown to 225,000 tons and reached one million tons by 1932. Until the and reached one million tons by 1932. Until the mid-1980s, annual cane sugar production in mid-1980s, annual cane sugar production in Hawaii averaged one million tons. Hawaii averaged one million tons.

In 1959 the combination of statehood and the In 1959 the combination of statehood and the introduction of passenger jet airplanes, the introduction of passenger jet airplanes, the tourist industry began to grow rapidly. tourist industry began to grow rapidly.

Within a decade the tourist industry became Within a decade the tourist industry became the state's largest economic activity. the state's largest economic activity.

Hawaii's sugar companies were all Hawaii's sugar companies were all located along the coastlines of the four located along the coastlines of the four largest islands and reach into the largest islands and reach into the foothills and upward along mountain foothills and upward along mountain slopes.slopes.

The islands of Oahu and Hawaii saw The islands of Oahu and Hawaii saw their final sugarcane harvests in 1996. their final sugarcane harvests in 1996.

By 2000, sugarcane was grown on By 2000, sugarcane was grown on about 70,000 acres on Kauai and Maui about 70,000 acres on Kauai and Maui yielding some 340,000 tons of raw yielding some 340,000 tons of raw sugar. sugar.

Hawaii Agriculture TimelineHawaii Agriculture Timeline

1824 1824 The mango tree brought to Hawaii.The mango tree brought to Hawaii. 1828-29 1828-29 H.N. Greenwell plants first coffee plant in H.N. Greenwell plants first coffee plant in

Kona leading to the establishment of a coffee industry Kona leading to the establishment of a coffee industry for Kona. for Kona.

1876 1876 "Act for the Protection and Preservation of "Act for the Protection and Preservation of Woods and Forests", including watershed Woods and Forests", including watershed preservation, passed by Kingdom of Hawaii.preservation, passed by Kingdom of Hawaii.

1878 1878 The Waimanalo Sugar Company is founded. The Waimanalo Sugar Company is founded. Rail tracks are laid out and three locomotive engines Rail tracks are laid out and three locomotive engines are brought in to haul cane to the mill and the wharf.are brought in to haul cane to the mill and the wharf.

1881 1881 William H. Purvis introduces macadamia nuts William H. Purvis introduces macadamia nuts to Hawaii.to Hawaii.

1882 1882 John Ackerman and Waldemar Muller canned John Ackerman and Waldemar Muller canned pineapple commercially in Kona.pineapple commercially in Kona.

1885 Captain John Kidwell is credited as being the pioneer of 1885 Captain John Kidwell is credited as being the pioneer of the pineapple industry in Hawaii. He began crop development the pineapple industry in Hawaii. He began crop development trials in 1885 when he planted in Manoa, Oahu.trials in 1885 when he planted in Manoa, Oahu.

1898 Alfred W. Eames arrives in Hawaii as one of the original 1898 Alfred W. Eames arrives in Hawaii as one of the original "California Homesteaders" to begin pineapple cultivation. "California Homesteaders" to begin pineapple cultivation. Eames first starts selling fresh pineapple in the year 1900, Eames first starts selling fresh pineapple in the year 1900, nearly a century ago. His company eventually became Del nearly a century ago. His company eventually became Del Monte Fresh Produce (Hawaii) Inc.Monte Fresh Produce (Hawaii) Inc.

1898 Japanese coffee farmers establish the Kona Japanese 1898 Japanese coffee farmers establish the Kona Japanese Coffee Producers Association in an effort to improve Coffee Producers Association in an effort to improve processing and market a higher value product.processing and market a higher value product.

1900 James Drummond Dole purchases 61 acres in Wahiawa 1900 James Drummond Dole purchases 61 acres in Wahiawa and began experimenting with pineappleand began experimenting with pineapple

1901 James Drummond Dole incorporates the Hawaiian 1901 James Drummond Dole incorporates the Hawaiian Pineapple Company and begins growing fruit on 60 acres in Pineapple Company and begins growing fruit on 60 acres in Wahiawa.Wahiawa.

1904 Hiring of first Territorial Forester (Ralph Hosmer); 1904 Hiring of first Territorial Forester (Ralph Hosmer); creation of first forest reserves to protect upper watershed creation of first forest reserves to protect upper watershed areas. Forest reserves managed by fencing, feral animal areas. Forest reserves managed by fencing, feral animal elimination, and reforestation with native and exotic tree elimination, and reforestation with native and exotic tree species.species.

1907 Establishment of the College of Agriculture and 1907 Establishment of the College of Agriculture and Mechanic Arts. Name changes to College of Hawaii in 1909 Mechanic Arts. Name changes to College of Hawaii in 1909 and to University of Hawaii in 1919.and to University of Hawaii in 1919.

1910 Japanese coffee farmers make-up 80% of the total 1910 Japanese coffee farmers make-up 80% of the total farming population in Kona.farming population in Kona.

1911 Introduction of the Solo papaya from Barbados and 1911 Introduction of the Solo papaya from Barbados and Jamaica, on Oct. 7, 1911, (accession no. 2853) by Gerritt P. Jamaica, on Oct. 7, 1911, (accession no. 2853) by Gerritt P. Wilder (of Honolulu) resulted in the complete Wilder (of Honolulu) resulted in the complete transformation of the Hawaiian papaya industry. This small transformation of the Hawaiian papaya industry. This small papaya, which was named Solo in 1919, replaced the papaya, which was named Solo in 1919, replaced the earlier large-fruited forms, and by 1936 the Solo was the earlier large-fruited forms, and by 1936 the Solo was the only variety grown commercially.only variety grown commercially.

19201920Hawaiian Homes Act established. Hawaiian Homes Act established. Federal government set aside 200,000 Federal government set aside 200,000 acres of land state wide for acres of land state wide for homesteading by Hawaiians with 50% homesteading by Hawaiians with 50% or more native blood.or more native blood.

Author of the bill was Prince Jonah Author of the bill was Prince Jonah Kuhio Kalanianaole, Hawaii delegate to Kuhio Kalanianaole, Hawaii delegate to Congress. First homestead area settled Congress. First homestead area settled was in Kalamaula on Molokai. was in Kalamaula on Molokai. Agricultural lots were established in Agricultural lots were established in Hoolehua, MolokaiHoolehua, Molokai..

1925 Ernest Van Tassel leases 75 acres on 1925 Ernest Van Tassel leases 75 acres on Round Top in Honolulu (Nut Ridge) and Round Top in Honolulu (Nut Ridge) and begins a macadamia nut orchard, Hawaii's begins a macadamia nut orchard, Hawaii's first macadamia nut farm.first macadamia nut farm.

1929 Depression leads to coffee bust; many 1929 Depression leads to coffee bust; many debt-ridden coffee farmers declare debt-ridden coffee farmers declare bankruptcy.bankruptcy.

1929 Ernest Van Tassel negotiates with 1929 Ernest Van Tassel negotiates with Bishop Estate to obtain 100 acres of land in Bishop Estate to obtain 100 acres of land in Keahoe Mauka for planting more than 7000 Keahoe Mauka for planting more than 7000 macadamia nut trees resulting in the first macadamia nut trees resulting in the first macadamia nut farm on the island of Hawaii. macadamia nut farm on the island of Hawaii.

1930 Nine million cases of pineapple packed by 1930 Nine million cases of pineapple packed by eight canneries.eight canneries.

1931 Twenty-five percent of the area of Hawaii in 1931 Twenty-five percent of the area of Hawaii in established Forest Reserves, both public and private established Forest Reserves, both public and private lands.lands.1933 Sugar production peaks with 254,563 acres 1933 Sugar production peaks with 254,563 acres planted.planted.

1934-1941 Civilian Conservation Corps 1934-1941 Civilian Conservation Corps reforestation efforts plant an average of two million reforestation efforts plant an average of two million trees per year in the forest reserves.trees per year in the forest reserves.

1947 Newly organized unionized pineapple 1947 Newly organized unionized pineapple workers conducts their first labors strike.workers conducts their first labors strike.1947 Oahu farmers meet in October for the first 1947 Oahu farmers meet in October for the first time leading to the creation of the Hawaii Farm time leading to the creation of the Hawaii Farm Bureau that was incorporated in December 1950.Bureau that was incorporated in December 1950.

1953 Mid 1950s-Castle and Cooke adds a new brand 1953 Mid 1950s-Castle and Cooke adds a new brand of macadamia nuts called "Royal Hawaiian," which is of macadamia nuts called "Royal Hawaiian," which is credited with popularizing the nuts in the U.S.credited with popularizing the nuts in the U.S.1955 Pineapple production peaks with 76,700 acres 1955 Pineapple production peaks with 76,700 acres planted.planted.

1957 USDA Forest Service experiment station 1957 USDA Forest Service experiment station established for forestry research in Hawaii; eventually established for forestry research in Hawaii; eventually becomes the Institute of Pacific Islands Forestry.becomes the Institute of Pacific Islands Forestry.1957-58 The coffee industry peaks in production with 1957-58 The coffee industry peaks in production with 15 million pounds of green coffee beans.15 million pounds of green coffee beans.

1959 With statehood, federal funds became available 1959 With statehood, federal funds became available for the development and growth of Hawaii's agricultural for the development and growth of Hawaii's agricultural industries with funding for programs such as farm industries with funding for programs such as farm credit, natural resources, and statistical services. credit, natural resources, and statistical services.

1960s (early) Hawaii pineapple growers supply over 80% 1960s (early) Hawaii pineapple growers supply over 80% of the world's output of canned pineapple.of the world's output of canned pineapple.

1961-1968 Plantations of potential commercial timber 1961-1968 Plantations of potential commercial timber species established in Waiakea forest reserve and species established in Waiakea forest reserve and Laupahoehoe forest reserve on the island of Hawaii.Laupahoehoe forest reserve on the island of Hawaii.

1960s (mid) Kona Farmers Cooperative, previously known 1960s (mid) Kona Farmers Cooperative, previously known as Sunset and Pacific Coffee Cooperatives gets Superior as Sunset and Pacific Coffee Cooperatives gets Superior Coffees in Chicago to purchase its entire crop at a Coffees in Chicago to purchase its entire crop at a premium price resulting in the construction of a roasting premium price resulting in the construction of a roasting plant in Honolulu.plant in Honolulu.

1966 Pineapple production begins to decline.1966 Pineapple production begins to decline.

1966 Peak sugar production with 1,234,121 tons of raw 1966 Peak sugar production with 1,234,121 tons of raw sugar.sugar.

Genetic Engineering in HawaiiGenetic Engineering in Hawaii 1968 Trojan Seed Company establishes a 1968 Trojan Seed Company establishes a

corn research farm at Kihei, Maui, which corn research farm at Kihei, Maui, which evolved through ownership by Pfizer evolved through ownership by Pfizer Genetics, and DeKalb to its present Genetics, and DeKalb to its present Monsanto Global Seeds business.Monsanto Global Seeds business.

1968 Pioneer Hi-Bred, International 1968 Pioneer Hi-Bred, International establishes a corn research farm on west establishes a corn research farm on west Kauai.Kauai.

1974 Visions to become largest producer of macadamia 1974 Visions to become largest producer of macadamia nuts leads C. Brewer & Company, Ltd. to purchase Castle nuts leads C. Brewer & Company, Ltd. to purchase Castle & Cooke's operation at Keaau.& Cooke's operation at Keaau.

1975 The establishment of the state's first agricultural 1975 The establishment of the state's first agricultural park at Pahoa.park at Pahoa.

1976 Del Monte expands into the produce business with 1976 Del Monte expands into the produce business with national distribution of fresh Hawaiian pineapple. This national distribution of fresh Hawaiian pineapple. This transition is accomplished with a focus on direct airfreight, transition is accomplished with a focus on direct airfreight, or Jet Fresh, shipments.or Jet Fresh, shipments.

1982 Formulation of the Ginger Commodity Group 1982 Formulation of the Ginger Commodity Group Association.Association.

1982 Ginger industry hits 100 acres of production for the 1982 Ginger industry hits 100 acres of production for the first time, raising 3.6 million pounds at a record high price.first time, raising 3.6 million pounds at a record high price.

1983 Del Monte Corp. folds Hawaii pineapple canning 1983 Del Monte Corp. folds Hawaii pineapple canning operations (September 3).operations (September 3).

1983 C. Brewer & Company, Ltd., becomes largest 1983 C. Brewer & Company, Ltd., becomes largest producer of macadamia nuts in the world.producer of macadamia nuts in the world.

1986 CTAHR begins a state-wide coffee variety trail or 1986 CTAHR begins a state-wide coffee variety trail or experiment launching a new era in Hawaii's Coffee experiment launching a new era in Hawaii's Coffee Industry,the next year one of the cooperators Kauai Industry,the next year one of the cooperators Kauai Coffee (A&B) begins planting the largest irrigated Coffee (A&B) begins planting the largest irrigated mechanized coffee plantation in the world.mechanized coffee plantation in the world.

1992 Dole Packaged Foods Co. closes Lanai plantation 1992 Dole Packaged Foods Co. closes Lanai plantation (October).(October).

1992 Dole shuts Iwilei Cannery (December).1992 Dole shuts Iwilei Cannery (December).

1992 Hawaii Tropical Forest Recovery (Federal ) 1992 Hawaii Tropical Forest Recovery (Federal ) Act enacted resulting in the development of a Act enacted resulting in the development of a detailed action plan that brings the complexity of detailed action plan that brings the complexity of forestry into a comprehensive and coordinated forestry into a comprehensive and coordinated planning process planning process

1994 Hamakua Sugar Co. harvests last crop 1994 Hamakua Sugar Co. harvests last crop 1995 Hilo Sugar closes.1995 Hilo Sugar closes.

1995 Oahu Sugar closes (April 9).1995 Oahu Sugar closes (April 9).1995 First shipment of foliage potted plants to 1995 First shipment of foliage potted plants to Japan Japan

1996 Ka'u Sugar closes (March 27).1996 Ka'u Sugar closes (March 27).1996 Waialua Sugar closes (October 4).1996 Waialua Sugar closes (October 4).

1997 Farm value of diversified agriculture 1997 Farm value of diversified agriculture surpasses $300 million mark for first time.surpasses $300 million mark for first time.1997 Private, commercial eucalyptus plantations 1997 Private, commercial eucalyptus plantations begin on former cane lands in Hamakua, Hawaii begin on former cane lands in Hamakua, Hawaii Island.Island.1998 Debut of transgenic papayas -- Rainbow and 1998 Debut of transgenic papayas -- Rainbow and SunUp -- resistant to the Papaya Ringspot Virus SunUp -- resistant to the Papaya Ringspot Virus (May 1).(May 1).1998 Ginger industry records a record year with 1998 Ginger industry records a record year with production of 18 million pounds.production of 18 million pounds.

1998 Hawaii's banana production reaches a 1998 Hawaii's banana production reaches a record breaking 21 million pounds; a 53% record breaking 21 million pounds; a 53% increase from the previous year.increase from the previous year.

1999 Last sugar harvest in Lahaina, Maui 1999 Last sugar harvest in Lahaina, Maui (September 12).(September 12).

1999 1999 5,500 farms in Hawaii. Up from 5,500 farms in Hawaii. Up from 3,700 in 1954 with more than 40 crops 3,700 in 1954 with more than 40 crops commercially compared to only 28 grown commercially compared to only 28 grown commercially in 1954.commercially in 1954.

Pioneer expands and establishes a seed Pioneer expands and establishes a seed processing plant at Waialua, Oahu.processing plant at Waialua, Oahu.

The genetically engineered seed business The genetically engineered seed business has grown since 1966 to a $27 million has grown since 1966 to a $27 million industry which is still growing and ranks industry which is still growing and ranks seventh among diversified agricultural seventh among diversified agricultural industries. In addition to corn, crops now industries. In addition to corn, crops now include soybeans, sunflower, and include soybeans, sunflower, and sorghum.sorghum.

Hawaii's macadamia nut industry is Hawaii's macadamia nut industry is the second largest in the world the second largest in the world with 45% of the world's production.with 45% of the world's production.

Hawaii continues to be the only Hawaii continues to be the only state in the nation to grow coffee. state in the nation to grow coffee. Hawaii produces 7.6 million Hawaii produces 7.6 million pounds of green coffee annually pounds of green coffee annually with production on the islands of with production on the islands of Hawaii, Kauai, Maui, Molokai, and Hawaii, Kauai, Maui, Molokai, and Oahu.Oahu.

Soil ErosionSoil Erosion

Sugar cane agriculture in Hawai`i required that Sugar cane agriculture in Hawai`i required that only enough nutrients to get the plant to about only enough nutrients to get the plant to about 14-16 months of age were to be applied to the 14-16 months of age were to be applied to the field.field.

When the plant began to be under nutrient When the plant began to be under nutrient stress, it would then convert its carbohydrates stress, it would then convert its carbohydrates into sugars. into sugars.

When the cane was harvested the nutrients that When the cane was harvested the nutrients that had been applied went with the plants to the mill had been applied went with the plants to the mill and from there wherever the waste ended up.and from there wherever the waste ended up.

When the last harvest was made the fields were When the last harvest was made the fields were left devoid of most nutrients. left devoid of most nutrients.

The topsoil that remained after a century of sugar The topsoil that remained after a century of sugar cultivation was lost when mechanical harvesting cultivation was lost when mechanical harvesting began in the years following World War IIbegan in the years following World War II

The constant tilling, fertilizing, and The constant tilling, fertilizing, and herbicide applications effectively herbicide applications effectively reduced all soil organisms to very reduced all soil organisms to very primitive forms. primitive forms.

There were no earthworms in sugar There were no earthworms in sugar cane fields and in most cases they are cane fields and in most cases they are still absent.still absent.

Few plants do well under extreme acid Few plants do well under extreme acid conditions; pineapple is one of them. conditions; pineapple is one of them.

Pineapple plantations deliberately Pineapple plantations deliberately reduced the soil pH to control pests reduced the soil pH to control pests

Sediments produced by erosion can and Sediments produced by erosion can and have damaged the marine environment of have damaged the marine environment of Hawai`i. Hawai`i.

Soil erosion has been associated with Soil erosion has been associated with global warming.global warming.

Soil gives off large amounts of carbon Soil gives off large amounts of carbon dioxide. dioxide.

When human activity causes erosion or soil When human activity causes erosion or soil loss, the soil is no longer rich enough to loss, the soil is no longer rich enough to store carbon, and carbon dioxide is either store carbon, and carbon dioxide is either released into the atmosphere or carried released into the atmosphere or carried directly to the seadirectly to the sea

In the early 1900s, pineapple began to play a In the early 1900s, pineapple began to play a significant role in the islands' economy. significant role in the islands' economy.

In pineapple fields, erosion hazards come mainly In pineapple fields, erosion hazards come mainly from the access roads that make up a high from the access roads that make up a high percentage of field area. percentage of field area.

According to a number of scientific reports most According to a number of scientific reports most soil erosion runoff originates on roads. Frequent soil erosion runoff originates on roads. Frequent traffic accelerates the process traffic accelerates the process

Once Hawai`i became a state in 1959 construction Once Hawai`i became a state in 1959 construction activities of all types increased and accelerated activities of all types increased and accelerated soil erosion.soil erosion.

Kane`ohe Bay and Pearl Harbor on O`ahu became Kane`ohe Bay and Pearl Harbor on O`ahu became receiving basins for soil lost from these activitiesreceiving basins for soil lost from these activities

Dole Pineapple :Superfund SiteDole Pineapple :Superfund Site

In the 2,000 households of the leeward In the 2,000 households of the leeward O’ahu town of Village Park, parents O’ahu town of Village Park, parents have become alarmed over what they have become alarmed over what they say is a suspiciously high number of say is a suspiciously high number of children in their community that have children in their community that have birth defects and learning disabilities. birth defects and learning disabilities.

Village Park has had a history of Village Park has had a history of contaminated drinking water supplies.contaminated drinking water supplies.

In addition, the boundary of the Del In addition, the boundary of the Del Monte Superfund site lies barely a mile Monte Superfund site lies barely a mile to the north and upslope of their town, to the north and upslope of their town, and many people believe that soil and many people believe that soil contaminated with EDB and DBCP - two contaminated with EDB and DBCP - two pineapple pesticides banned by the pineapple pesticides banned by the Environmental Protection Agency more Environmental Protection Agency more than a decade ago - was used as fill than a decade ago - was used as fill during Village Park's development. during Village Park's development.

DBCP, or 1,2-dibromo-3-chloro-propane, is a DBCP, or 1,2-dibromo-3-chloro-propane, is a pesticide once used by Hawai'i's pineapple pesticide once used by Hawai'i's pineapple growers to control pestsgrowers to control pests

Farmers in 49 states had to stop using it in Farmers in 49 states had to stop using it in 1979 because the Environmental Protection 1979 because the Environmental Protection Agency had identified it as a health hazard, Agency had identified it as a health hazard, but pineapple growers in Hawai'i were but pineapple growers in Hawai'i were allowed to continue using it until 1985. allowed to continue using it until 1985.

In 1981, the state found DBCP in drinking In 1981, the state found DBCP in drinking water wells in Central O'ahu, including the water wells in Central O'ahu, including the Kunia Wells II, which provide Village Park's Kunia Wells II, which provide Village Park's water. water.

The chemical TCP (1,2,3-trichloropropane), a The chemical TCP (1,2,3-trichloropropane), a pesticide byproduct, was also found in these pesticide byproduct, was also found in these wells. wells.

Five miles from Village Park, in Kunia, lies the heart Five miles from Village Park, in Kunia, lies the heart of the Del Monte pineapple plantation. of the Del Monte pineapple plantation.

Near a well in Kunia used by the camp for drinking Near a well in Kunia used by the camp for drinking water, a massive spill of ethylene dibromide water, a massive spill of ethylene dibromide occurred in 1977. occurred in 1977.

Like DBCP, EDB is a fumi gant that was used to Like DBCP, EDB is a fumi gant that was used to control pests. control pests.

Since proposing that the site be added to the Since proposing that the site be added to the National Priorities List (the Superfund list), the EPA National Priorities List (the Superfund list), the EPA has discovered that the plantation is also littered has discovered that the plantation is also littered with at least 22 sites where DBCP or DBCP-with at least 22 sites where DBCP or DBCP-contaminated wastes were buried.contaminated wastes were buried.

Well in the water at Kunia Camp showed EDB Well in the water at Kunia Camp showed EDB present at levels thousands of times the Department present at levels thousands of times the Department of Health's maximum contaminant level (MCL), while of Health's maximum contaminant level (MCL), while levels of DBCP were hundreds of times the state's levels of DBCP were hundreds of times the state's MCL. MCL.

The site was formally included on The site was formally included on the Superfund list on December 16, the Superfund list on December 16, 1994. 1994.

Today, Del Monte is in the first Today, Del Monte is in the first stages of the Superfund process - stages of the Superfund process - preparation of the remedial preparation of the remedial investigation/ feasibility study investigation/ feasibility study (RI/FS). (RI/FS).

As part of the Superfund listing process, on As part of the Superfund listing process, on January 25 and 26, 1994, the EPA held a January 25 and 26, 1994, the EPA held a public meeting in Wahiawa to which nearby public meeting in Wahiawa to which nearby residents were invited. residents were invited.

The meeting's purpose was to give residents The meeting's purpose was to give residents a chance to obtain information and ask a chance to obtain information and ask questions of officials about health risks questions of officials about health risks resulting from the contamination. resulting from the contamination.

All chemicals were identified as carcinogens All chemicals were identified as carcinogens causing infertility, liver damage, causing infertility, liver damage, gastrointestinal system and adrenal glands gastrointestinal system and adrenal glands destruction, male reproductive organs destruction, male reproductive organs deformation, liver and kidney failure, and is a deformation, liver and kidney failure, and is a mutagen causing birth defectsmutagen causing birth defects. .

Residents were informed that trucks Residents were informed that trucks operated by Horita Construction (the de operated by Horita Construction (the de veloper) used water from contaminated veloper) used water from contaminated wells to spray for dust control and used wells to spray for dust control and used loads of dirt from areas near Kunia to loads of dirt from areas near Kunia to sculpt the subdivision's “view lots." sculpt the subdivision's “view lots."

After the EDB spill in 1977, Del Monte began After the EDB spill in 1977, Del Monte began an enormous excavation project in a crude an enormous excavation project in a crude attempt to deal with the contamination. attempt to deal with the contamination.

More than 18,000 tons of EDB-contaminated More than 18,000 tons of EDB-contaminated soil and rock were removed from the area soil and rock were removed from the area around the plantation's pesticide storage and around the plantation's pesticide storage and mixing area. Most of the soil was spread over mixing area. Most of the soil was spread over a 20-acre field so that the chemical could a 20-acre field so that the chemical could volatilize. volatilize.

Del Monte's contaminated soil and water was Del Monte's contaminated soil and water was sold and used in the construction of their sold and used in the construction of their town Village Park. town Village Park.

The wells had been known to be con The wells had been known to be con taminated since 1981, when the state taminated since 1981, when the state screened drinking-water wells on O’ahu screened drinking-water wells on O’ahu and Maui for the presence of DBCP and and Maui for the presence of DBCP and were found above the maximum were found above the maximum contaminant level. contaminant level.

Not until 1983 were the wells taken out Not until 1983 were the wells taken out of service, however. of service, however.

For at least two years - and probably For at least two years - and probably much longer -Village Park residents much longer -Village Park residents had been drinking and bathing in had been drinking and bathing in contaminated watercontaminated water. .

From 1983 to 1986, Village Park's water From 1983 to 1986, Village Park's water was taken from the Ho'ae’ae wells. was taken from the Ho'ae’ae wells.

These wells were also contaminated - These wells were also contaminated - with TCP and atrazine, a herbicide used with TCP and atrazine, a herbicide used in Hawai’i on sugar. in Hawai’i on sugar.

By 1984, the Kunia well was one of several O`ahu By 1984, the Kunia well was one of several O`ahu wells that the state of Hawai`i had proposed to the wells that the state of Hawai`i had proposed to the EPA for consideration as possible Superfund EPA for consideration as possible Superfund sites, under the federal Comprehensive sites, under the federal Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA, better known as the Liability Act (CERCLA, better known as the Superfund law). Superfund law).

The other wells had become contaminated through The other wells had become contaminated through the routine and legal use of pesticides. Under the the routine and legal use of pesticides. Under the interpretation of Reagan administration officials, interpretation of Reagan administration officials, this source of contamination made the wells this source of contamination made the wells ineligible for cleanup under the Superfund ineligible for cleanup under the Superfund protocols. protocols.

Only the Kunia well could be shown to have been Only the Kunia well could be shown to have been contaminated by a spill; for this reason, it alone contaminated by a spill; for this reason, it alone among the contaminated O`ahu wells became the among the contaminated O`ahu wells became the subject of further investigation by the EPA. subject of further investigation by the EPA.

Del Monte disclosed to the EPA that in Del Monte disclosed to the EPA that in 1980, it buried 43.5 pounds of methyl 1980, it buried 43.5 pounds of methyl bromide in a field adjoining the bromide in a field adjoining the plantation's northern boundary with the plantation's northern boundary with the Army's Schofield Barracks installation. Army's Schofield Barracks installation.

It disclosed also that before 1980, it had It disclosed also that before 1980, it had buried empty drums used for fumigant buried empty drums used for fumigant storage at 22 different sites, of which storage at 22 different sites, of which 17 could be located. 17 could be located.

In September 1990, Ecology and In September 1990, Ecology and Environment, Inc., submitted to the Environment, Inc., submitted to the EPA its preliminary site inspection EPA its preliminary site inspection report. report.

In 1992, the EPA completed a hazard In 1992, the EPA completed a hazard ranking process, and on May 7, 1993, ranking process, and on May 7, 1993, the EPA announced it was proposing to the EPA announced it was proposing to add the Del Monte plantation to the add the Del Monte plantation to the roster of sites on its National Priorities roster of sites on its National Priorities List (Superfund). List (Superfund).

In July 1983, a well in Waipahu was the first to be In July 1983, a well in Waipahu was the first to be closed after EDB was found in the water at closed after EDB was found in the water at concentrations above the maximum contaminant level. concentrations above the maximum contaminant level. By late July, eight wells, serving parts of Maui, Waipahu By late July, eight wells, serving parts of Maui, Waipahu Mililani, and Waialua, were found to be seriously Mililani, and Waialua, were found to be seriously contaminated- and Hawai'i's 1983 water crisis was in contaminated- and Hawai'i's 1983 water crisis was in full swing. full swing.

Chemicals of concern were no longer just EDB and Chemicals of concern were no longer just EDB and DBCP, but now included trichloropropane, or TCP - DBCP, but now included trichloropropane, or TCP - used industrially as a cleaning solvent and also present used industrially as a cleaning solvent and also present as a contaminant in some pesticide formulations and as a contaminant in some pesticide formulations and the list was to grow later. the list was to grow later.

Honolulu City Council and neighborhood boards to the Honolulu City Council and neighborhood boards to the governor's office, were besieged with questions from governor's office, were besieged with questions from worried residents about the source of the pollutants, worried residents about the source of the pollutants, their health effects, and possible ways of dealing with their health effects, and possible ways of dealing with the problem. the problem.

Military Connection?Military Connection?

Soon after EDB and TCP contamination in Soon after EDB and TCP contamination in the groundwater was confirmed in 1983, the the groundwater was confirmed in 1983, the Governor's Task Force on Water Governor's Task Force on Water Contamination began looking for sources of Contamination began looking for sources of the chemicals other than the pineapple the chemicals other than the pineapple plantations. plantations.

The U.S. military, with its large presence at The U.S. military, with its large presence at Schofield Barracks and Pearl Harbor, was Schofield Barracks and Pearl Harbor, was identified as dumping petroleum wastes in identified as dumping petroleum wastes in pits and gulches of central O'ahu. pits and gulches of central O'ahu.

Since the pre-World War II installation of the Since the pre-World War II installation of the military's Petroleum-Oil-Lubricant pipeline, military's Petroleum-Oil-Lubricant pipeline, extending from Pearl Harbor to Schofield extending from Pearl Harbor to Schofield Barracks, many leaks and spills of petroleum Barracks, many leaks and spills of petroleum products were known to have occurred. products were known to have occurred.

On August 23, 1983, Governor Ariyoshi On August 23, 1983, Governor Ariyoshi wrote Secretary of Defense Caspar W. wrote Secretary of Defense Caspar W. Weinberger, asking Weinberger's Weinberger, asking Weinberger's assistance in "making available to us any assistance in "making available to us any information the Department of Defense information the Department of Defense may have that would clarify such may have that would clarify such suspicions on the possibility of military suspicions on the possibility of military fuel installations as a source of water fuel installations as a source of water contamination on O'ahu." contamination on O'ahu."

The Air Force identified 10 major leaks of The Air Force identified 10 major leaks of fuel along the 16-mile pipeline connecting fuel along the 16-mile pipeline connecting the Waikakalaua and Kipapa storage the Waikakalaua and Kipapa storage facilities in Central O'ahu to Hickam Air facilities in Central O'ahu to Hickam Air Force Base at Pearl Harbor.Force Base at Pearl Harbor.

In 1954, 300,000 gallons of aviation gas In 1954, 300,000 gallons of aviation gas leaked into Pearl Harbor from the leaked into Pearl Harbor from the pipeline. In 1978, 50,000 gallons of jet fuel pipeline. In 1978, 50,000 gallons of jet fuel soaked into the ground. soaked into the ground.

Of the 10 leaks, nine involved aviation Of the 10 leaks, nine involved aviation gas, which contained EDB as an additive.gas, which contained EDB as an additive.

Seven of those nine, involving a total of Seven of those nine, involving a total of 516,000 gallons of spilled aviation 516,000 gallons of spilled aviation gasoline, were up gradient or within 1.5 gasoline, were up gradient or within 1.5 miles of EDB-contaminated wells.miles of EDB-contaminated wells.

Two leaks in which a total of 386,000 Two leaks in which a total of 386,000 gallons of aviation gas were lost gallons of aviation gas were lost occurred within half a mile of a occurred within half a mile of a contaminated well. contaminated well.

Hamakua Sugar CompanyHamakua Sugar Company

For more than a decade, operators of the For more than a decade, operators of the two sugar mills along the Hamakua Coast two sugar mills along the Hamakua Coast Hamakua Sugar Company, with a mill at Hamakua Sugar Company, with a mill at Haina, and Hilo Coast Processing Haina, and Hilo Coast Processing Company, with a mill at Pepe`ekeo have Company, with a mill at Pepe`ekeo have protested Environmental Protection protested Environmental Protection Agency requirements that they clean up Agency requirements that they clean up cane wash water before discharging it to cane wash water before discharging it to the ocean. the ocean.

Despite all this, the Hamakua Sugar Despite all this, the Hamakua Sugar Company faced civil penalties of up to $2 Company faced civil penalties of up to $2 million and possible criminal charges for million and possible criminal charges for its failure to meet the EPA's clean--water its failure to meet the EPA's clean--water standards. standards.

For almost as long as its discharges have been For almost as long as its discharges have been subject to regulation, Hamakua Sugar Company has subject to regulation, Hamakua Sugar Company has had difficulty meeting discharge standards.had difficulty meeting discharge standards.

Confronted with the company's own monthly Confronted with the company's own monthly discharge monitoring reports, indicating ongoing discharge monitoring reports, indicating ongoing violations of both the daily maximum limits as well violations of both the daily maximum limits as well as the monthly average limits, the state Department as the monthly average limits, the state Department of Health issued a notice and finding of violation to of Health issued a notice and finding of violation to HSC on February 27, 1995. HSC on February 27, 1995.

In June 1990 the maximum limit on suspended In June 1990 the maximum limit on suspended discharges in one day is 9.9 pounds for each 1,000 discharges in one day is 9.9 pounds for each 1,000 pounds of gross cane processed, Hamakua Sugar's pounds of gross cane processed, Hamakua Sugar's reported "daily maximum" was 74.8 poundsreported "daily maximum" was 74.8 pounds

That same month, the 30-day average limit of 3.6 That same month, the 30-day average limit of 3.6 pounds per 1,000 pounds was violated with HSC's pounds per 1,000 pounds was violated with HSC's reported 30-day average being 28 pounds per 1,000 reported 30-day average being 28 pounds per 1,000 pounds gross cane. pounds gross cane.

In November 1990 EPA agents, In November 1990 EPA agents, bearing sidearms, handcuffs, and a bearing sidearms, handcuffs, and a search warrant, raided HSC's offices search warrant, raided HSC's offices seeking company documents that seeking company documents that would disclose violations would disclose violations

A study concluded that approximately A study concluded that approximately 12 tons per day of soil entering the 12 tons per day of soil entering the ocean off Kahaupu Gulch contained ocean off Kahaupu Gulch contained levels of heavy metals (arsenic, copper, levels of heavy metals (arsenic, copper, lead and mercury) in the off-shore lead and mercury) in the off-shore waters to exceeding EPA criteria. waters to exceeding EPA criteria.

According to the EPA report, "the total According to the EPA report, "the total suspended solids discharged to the suspended solids discharged to the ocean would increase from ocean would increase from approximately 13 tons/day to 656 approximately 13 tons/day to 656 tons/day at HSC, an increase of about tons/day at HSC, an increase of about 50 times.”50 times.”

When Hamakua Sugar's NPDES permit When Hamakua Sugar's NPDES permit was finally renewed in September 1991, was finally renewed in September 1991, the standards held maintained, but HSC the standards held maintained, but HSC sought reduced treatment standards and sought reduced treatment standards and other relief through the appeals process. other relief through the appeals process.

Genetically Engineered Foods Genetically Engineered Foods Milk ProductsMilk Products Monsanto first applied for Canadian government Monsanto first applied for Canadian government

approval of Posilac, its brand name for rBGH, in approval of Posilac, its brand name for rBGH, in 1990, approximately the same time it applied for FDA 1990, approximately the same time it applied for FDA approval in the United States. approval in the United States.

Unlike officials at the FDA, Health Canada officials Unlike officials at the FDA, Health Canada officials decided to review the data obtained by Monsanto in decided to review the data obtained by Monsanto in studies of rats injected with rBGH. studies of rats injected with rBGH.

The Canadian scientists discovered that between 20 The Canadian scientists discovered that between 20 and 30 percent of rats exposed in tests lasting just and 30 percent of rats exposed in tests lasting just 90 days had developed immunological reactions and 90 days had developed immunological reactions and thyroid cysts. In male rats, rBGH was found to have thyroid cysts. In male rats, rBGH was found to have infiltrated prostate glands. infiltrated prostate glands.

All milk from local dairies passes through the All milk from local dairies passes through the state's two processors to be pasteurized, state's two processors to be pasteurized, packaged, and marketed. To qualify for the packaged, and marketed. To qualify for the Island Fresh label, at least 90 percent of the Island Fresh label, at least 90 percent of the milk has to come from Hawai`i dairies. milk has to come from Hawai`i dairies.

That means "Island Fresh" milk may be local That means "Island Fresh" milk may be local milk blended with up to 10 percent mainland milk blended with up to 10 percent mainland milk, possibly from a dairy where rBGH is milk, possibly from a dairy where rBGH is used. used.

The make-up of milk varies from island to The make-up of milk varies from island to island. Milk from the Big Island may be 100 island. Milk from the Big Island may be 100 percent local and rBGH-free, but the same percent local and rBGH-free, but the same may not be true of O`ahu's "Island Fresh" may not be true of O`ahu's "Island Fresh" milk. milk.

Milk is also used in other dairy products; Milk is also used in other dairy products; yogurt, cheese etc.yogurt, cheese etc.

Genetically Engineered CropsGenetically Engineered Crops

With its fertile volcanic soil, year-round With its fertile volcanic soil, year-round growing season and location far from growing season and location far from America's farm belt, Hawai'i makes an ideal America's farm belt, Hawai'i makes an ideal location for cutting-edge research into the location for cutting-edge research into the high-tech seed crops of tomorrow.high-tech seed crops of tomorrow.

In the past 16 years, Hawai'i has led the In the past 16 years, Hawai'i has led the states in open-air test sites of genetically states in open-air test sites of genetically engineered crops, according to a report engineered crops, according to a report released this year by advocacy group released this year by advocacy group Environment California Research & Policy Environment California Research & Policy Center.Center.

In the past decade, the value of the state's In the past decade, the value of the state's seed-crop industry, 40 percent of which is seed-crop industry, 40 percent of which is estimated to involve genetically engineered estimated to involve genetically engineered crops, has grown fivefold, to a record $48.7 crops, has grown fivefold, to a record $48.7 million last year.million last year.

That record could be challenged by That record could be challenged by Earthjustice, a nonprofit law firm based Earthjustice, a nonprofit law firm based in Oakland, Calif., which is trying to use in Oakland, Calif., which is trying to use open-record laws to force the state to open-record laws to force the state to allow inspection of its files on two allow inspection of its files on two companies given permission to grow companies given permission to grow genetically engineered pharmaceutical genetically engineered pharmaceutical crops in Hawai'i.crops in Hawai'i.

National groups are calling for a moratorium on National groups are calling for a moratorium on testing genetically engineered crops in outdoor fields testing genetically engineered crops in outdoor fields -- an area in which they say Hawaii leads the nation.-- an area in which they say Hawaii leads the nation.U.S. Public Interest Research Group and Genetically U.S. Public Interest Research Group and Genetically Engineered Food Alert also said that selling Engineered Food Alert also said that selling genetically engineered foods should be halted until genetically engineered foods should be halted until independent studies can prove that they do not harm independent studies can prove that they do not harm humans and the environment.humans and the environment.

The groups' action follows release of their report, The groups' action follows release of their report, based on data provided by the U.S. Agriculture based on data provided by the U.S. Agriculture Department.Department.

Between 1987 and 2000, the department authorized Between 1987 and 2000, the department authorized almost 29,000 field tests of genetically engineered almost 29,000 field tests of genetically engineered organisms despite uncertainties over their effects on organisms despite uncertainties over their effects on the environment and inadequate regulations to the environment and inadequate regulations to monitor their impacts.monitor their impacts.

On August 5, the Environmental Protection On August 5, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sent a letter to Pioneer Hi-Bred Agency (EPA) sent a letter to Pioneer Hi-Bred and Mycogen Seeds, alleging that the and Mycogen Seeds, alleging that the companies violated their permits to grow companies violated their permits to grow genetically engineered (GE) crops in Hawaii. genetically engineered (GE) crops in Hawaii.

This is the first time in U.S. history that the This is the first time in U.S. history that the EPA has considered taking action against EPA has considered taking action against biotechnology companies doing field tests. biotechnology companies doing field tests.

Pioneer Hi-Bred was cited by the EPA for its Pioneer Hi-Bred was cited by the EPA for its research station on Kauai, because they research station on Kauai, because they planted experimental corn too close to other planted experimental corn too close to other non-genetically modified crops in an non-genetically modified crops in an unapproved location.unapproved location.

Mycogen Seeds on Moloka'i was accused of Mycogen Seeds on Moloka'i was accused of failing to plant trees around its genetically failing to plant trees around its genetically engineered crops to act as a windbreak to engineered crops to act as a windbreak to keep the pollen from spreading to other keep the pollen from spreading to other crops.crops.

The GE corn in question is not for human The GE corn in question is not for human consumption, but there is concern about consumption, but there is concern about what would happen if these test plots did what would happen if these test plots did contaminate near-by crops by cross-contaminate near-by crops by cross-pollination. pollination.

This is particularly troubling for both the This is particularly troubling for both the people and environment of Hawaii.people and environment of Hawaii.

Over the last several Hawaii has become a Over the last several Hawaii has become a sort of guinea pig for genetic engineering sort of guinea pig for genetic engineering filed tests.filed tests.

In 2001, Hawaii had about 1,200 field tests, In 2001, Hawaii had about 1,200 field tests, which were pending, approved, or which were pending, approved, or completed and this was the most research completed and this was the most research requests in the country. requests in the country.

It is estimated that up to 90 million acres of It is estimated that up to 90 million acres of genetic engineered crops are grown in our genetic engineered crops are grown in our country. country.

GE corn now accounts for about one-GE corn now accounts for about one-third of all corn planted in the U.S. and third of all corn planted in the U.S. and about 70% of the processed foods on about 70% of the processed foods on store shelves have GE ingredients. store shelves have GE ingredients.

Harmful allergens, toxins, antibiotic-Harmful allergens, toxins, antibiotic-resistant genes, lowered nutritional resistant genes, lowered nutritional values, and greater pesticide residues values, and greater pesticide residues are just a few of the things that have are just a few of the things that have been associated with GE foods and been associated with GE foods and crops. crops.

Many new crops under development, some of which Many new crops under development, some of which are being grown and tested here in Hawaii.are being grown and tested here in Hawaii.

For instance, the “Terminator” seed technology For instance, the “Terminator” seed technology produces crops that have sterile seeds, so that produces crops that have sterile seeds, so that farmers are forced to buy new seeds every year farmers are forced to buy new seeds every year instead of being able to save and share them. instead of being able to save and share them.

Another kind of crop being developed can produce Another kind of crop being developed can produce pharmaceutical proteins, vaccines, and industrial pharmaceutical proteins, vaccines, and industrial solvents in plants and animals. solvents in plants and animals.

This is called “biopharming.” Biopharming poses a This is called “biopharming.” Biopharming poses a serious risk to our food supply, because scientists serious risk to our food supply, because scientists are experimenting with this new technology in food are experimenting with this new technology in food crops like corn, which can spread their pollen up to crops like corn, which can spread their pollen up to two miles away. As of November 2002, 36 permits two miles away. As of November 2002, 36 permits had been issued for the growing and testing of had been issued for the growing and testing of biopharmaceutical crops here in Hawaii. biopharmaceutical crops here in Hawaii.

Because foods with genetically engineered crops are Because foods with genetically engineered crops are not labeled, it’s hard to know when we’re eating not labeled, it’s hard to know when we’re eating something that has been genetically engineered. something that has been genetically engineered.

It has been less than 10 years since these foods It has been less than 10 years since these foods were put on the market, but by now over 70% of our were put on the market, but by now over 70% of our soybeans, corn, cotton, and canola are genetically soybeans, corn, cotton, and canola are genetically engineered. engineered.

The majority of processed foods contain one or The majority of processed foods contain one or more of these ingredients, including soy lecithin, more of these ingredients, including soy lecithin, soy oil, corn syrup, corn starch, and soy protein. soy oil, corn syrup, corn starch, and soy protein.

Many foods contain these ingredients and many Many foods contain these ingredients and many more genetically engineered ingredients are on the more genetically engineered ingredients are on the way, including fish, lettuce, peppers, melons, peas, way, including fish, lettuce, peppers, melons, peas, rice, wheat, strawberries, raspberries, pineapples, rice, wheat, strawberries, raspberries, pineapples, bananas, apples, and pigs.bananas, apples, and pigs.

Another health concern is that antibiotic-resistance Another health concern is that antibiotic-resistance genes are incorporated into nearly every genetically genes are incorporated into nearly every genetically engineered organism to show if the new genes have engineered organism to show if the new genes have successfully been incorporated into the new successfully been incorporated into the new organism.organism.

Scientists fear this will give humans resistance to Scientists fear this will give humans resistance to antibiotics, and take away their usefulness when we antibiotics, and take away their usefulness when we get sick. Based on the risk of antibiotic resistance, get sick. Based on the risk of antibiotic resistance, the British Medical Association recommended that the British Medical Association recommended that GMOs not enter the British food market. GMOs not enter the British food market.

Genetic engineering can transfer new and Genetic engineering can transfer new and unidentified proteins from one food to another unidentified proteins from one food to another causing allergenic reactions, and creating new causing allergenic reactions, and creating new allergies that have not yet been identified.allergies that have not yet been identified.

The millions of Americans who have allergies have The millions of Americans who have allergies have no way to identify which foods have been genetically no way to identify which foods have been genetically engineered or what new elements could be present engineered or what new elements could be present in their food. in their food.

   The genetic engineering industry is The genetic engineering industry is

dominated by a few major multinational dominated by a few major multinational corporations, including Monsanto, Dupont, corporations, including Monsanto, Dupont, Syngenta, Dow and Aventis, all of whom Syngenta, Dow and Aventis, all of whom have operations in the Hawaiian islands. have operations in the Hawaiian islands.

These corporations account for almost 100% These corporations account for almost 100% of the global market in genetically of the global market in genetically engineered seeds. engineered seeds.

These companies are also the world’s These companies are also the world’s biggest producers of agrochemicals. biggest producers of agrochemicals.

They are the same companies who created They are the same companies who created DDT, CFCs, Agent Orange, and dozens of DDT, CFCs, Agent Orange, and dozens of pesticides and chemicals that they promised pesticides and chemicals that they promised were safe and that were later determined to were safe and that were later determined to be toxic to human health and the be toxic to human health and the environment. environment.

There are numerous hazards that genetic engineering There are numerous hazards that genetic engineering poses to farmers that choose to grow GMO crops and poses to farmers that choose to grow GMO crops and farmers grow conventional or organic cropsfarmers grow conventional or organic crops

Market loss: Consumers around the world are saying no to Market loss: Consumers around the world are saying no to GMO crops, and this means a loss of markets for farmers GMO crops, and this means a loss of markets for farmers who have to shoulder the financial and logistical burdens who have to shoulder the financial and logistical burdens of testing and segregating non-GMO from GMO crops. of testing and segregating non-GMO from GMO crops.

In 1996, US farmers sold $3 billion worth of corn and In 1996, US farmers sold $3 billion worth of corn and soybeans to Europe. In 1999, these exports had shrunk to soybeans to Europe. In 1999, these exports had shrunk to $1 billion. $1 billion.

In Hawaii, genetically engineered papaya has drastically In Hawaii, genetically engineered papaya has drastically undercut the export market for local papaya growers. undercut the export market for local papaya growers. Japan, the former number one importer of Hawaiian Japan, the former number one importer of Hawaiian papaya, is buying elsewhere because of their opposition to papaya, is buying elsewhere because of their opposition to GMO crops. GMO crops.

This hurts not only the GMO papaya farmers, but all This hurts not only the GMO papaya farmers, but all Hawaiian papaya growers.Hawaiian papaya growers.

Crop contamination: Cross pollination or mistakes in Crop contamination: Cross pollination or mistakes in shipping can contaminate non-GMO crops. shipping can contaminate non-GMO crops.

If a farmers non-GMO corn crop is contaminated by If a farmers non-GMO corn crop is contaminated by a neighboring GMO crops and the company that a neighboring GMO crops and the company that patented the GMO corn finds out, the farmer can be patented the GMO corn finds out, the farmer can be forced to pay the leasing fee for growing the GE forced to pay the leasing fee for growing the GE seeds and taken to court if they refuse.seeds and taken to court if they refuse.

Hundreds of farmers have already been fined Hundreds of farmers have already been fined because of contamination by GMO crops. because of contamination by GMO crops.

Cross pollination is a big concern for the people of Cross pollination is a big concern for the people of Kauai and Molokai because the EPA already found Kauai and Molokai because the EPA already found that DuPont on Kauai and Dow on Molokai violated that DuPont on Kauai and Dow on Molokai violated safe planting restrictions meant to reduce the risk of safe planting restrictions meant to reduce the risk of cross-pollination of their genetically engineered cross-pollination of their genetically engineered crops. crops.

Cross pollination and co-mingling of Cross pollination and co-mingling of seeds can also cost food manufacturers. seeds can also cost food manufacturers. For example, Terra Prima, an organic For example, Terra Prima, an organic corn chip maker, lost $87,000 when some corn chip maker, lost $87,000 when some of its European exports were returned of its European exports were returned after testing positive for GE ingredients. after testing positive for GE ingredients.

On the Big Island, an organic On the Big Island, an organic papaya farmer discovered that his papaya farmer discovered that his papaya crop had been papaya crop had been contaminated by genetically contaminated by genetically engineered papaya and had to engineered papaya and had to destroy his entire orchard.destroy his entire orchard.

Contamination of papaya on the Big Contamination of papaya on the Big Island, where GE papaya was first Island, where GE papaya was first developed, is so widespresd that developed, is so widespresd that papaya growers Hilo/Puna side of papaya growers Hilo/Puna side of the island can not be certified the island can not be certified organic. organic.

Loss of independence: By signing Technology Use Loss of independence: By signing Technology Use Agreements, farmers that choose to grow GMO Agreements, farmers that choose to grow GMO crops are locked into buying certain kinds of crops are locked into buying certain kinds of herbicides and pesticides and are forced to buy new herbicides and pesticides and are forced to buy new seed each year. seed each year.

They no longer own the crops they grow, they lease They no longer own the crops they grow, they lease them from multinational corporations.them from multinational corporations.

For instance, on Kauai farmers were issued letters For instance, on Kauai farmers were issued letters in 2002 and 2003 telling them that they were not in 2002 and 2003 telling them that they were not allowed to grow corn, sunflowers, or soybeans allowed to grow corn, sunflowers, or soybeans because of the risk of contamination of surrounding because of the risk of contamination of surrounding GMO fields. GMO fields.

Cost: Then there is the issue of the cost of growing Cost: Then there is the issue of the cost of growing GE crops. GE crops.

For instance, to grow Roundup Ready crops, For instance, to grow Roundup Ready crops, farmers have to buy the seed and buy the Roundup farmers have to buy the seed and buy the Roundup to spray on the seed, which can end up costing 50% to spray on the seed, which can end up costing 50% more than non-GMO growing systems. more than non-GMO growing systems.

Roundup Soy CropsRoundup Soy Crops

Liability: There are a number of liability Liability: There are a number of liability concerns that both GMO and conventional concerns that both GMO and conventional farmers face when GMO crops are grown.farmers face when GMO crops are grown.

liability for any harm that might come from liability for any harm that might come from genetic engineering is placed on the shoulders genetic engineering is placed on the shoulders of the farmers who grow these crops, not on of the farmers who grow these crops, not on the companies that create them. the companies that create them.

This is something farmers agree to by signing This is something farmers agree to by signing Technology Use Agreements. In fact, insurance Technology Use Agreements. In fact, insurance companies think genetic engineering ventures companies think genetic engineering ventures are so risky that they refuse to insure genetic are so risky that they refuse to insure genetic engineering corporations. engineering corporations.

    Hawaii’s environmentHawaii’s environment Our ecosystem has developed over millions of years, and Our ecosystem has developed over millions of years, and

is delicate, complex, and interconnected.is delicate, complex, and interconnected. Genetic engineering introduces plants and animals that Genetic engineering introduces plants and animals that

are brand new to the world into these ecosystems, with are brand new to the world into these ecosystems, with unknown consequences.unknown consequences.

These new species could endanger wildlife and change These new species could endanger wildlife and change the complicated relationships between plants and the complicated relationships between plants and animals that have developed over time, threatening animals that have developed over time, threatening biodiversity. biodiversity.

Another environmental concern is an increase in Another environmental concern is an increase in pesticide use. pesticide use.

57% of biotechnology research is focused on the 57% of biotechnology research is focused on the development of plants that can withstand heavier development of plants that can withstand heavier applications of pesticides. applications of pesticides.

Scientists estimate that this will triple the amount of Scientists estimate that this will triple the amount of herbicides used on crops, which means more chemicals herbicides used on crops, which means more chemicals in our food and water. in our food and water.

Genetically engineered plants also Genetically engineered plants also introduce new elements into the soil. introduce new elements into the soil.

Soil has many different kinds of bacteria Soil has many different kinds of bacteria which can be altered in this process.which can be altered in this process.

Will these GE plants kill off beneficial Will these GE plants kill off beneficial bacteria? bacteria?

Will they change soil structure?Will they change soil structure? What will the effects be on other plants? What will the effects be on other plants?

These issues have not been explored. These issues have not been explored.

There is also the concern of increase in There is also the concern of increase in invasive species, so-called “Superweeds“ invasive species, so-called “Superweeds“ and “Superpests.”and “Superpests.”

With increased applications of pesticides With increased applications of pesticides and with advent of plants that produce and with advent of plants that produce pesticides in every cell in genetic pesticides in every cell in genetic engineering, there is concern that weeds and engineering, there is concern that weeds and insects will develop resistance to these insects will develop resistance to these chemicals, rendering the chemicals unusable chemicals, rendering the chemicals unusable and making both the pests and the weeds and making both the pests and the weeds harder to kill. harder to kill.

Studies have shown that resistance to Studies have shown that resistance to herbicides in GMO crops have been passed herbicides in GMO crops have been passed on to the wild relatives of those crops, on to the wild relatives of those crops, rendering those weeds harder to controlrendering those weeds harder to control. .

Here in Hawaii, these GE crops may Here in Hawaii, these GE crops may have a negative impact on our many have a negative impact on our many endangered plant and animal species. endangered plant and animal species.

No studies have been done to determine No studies have been done to determine how Hawaii‘s endangered species are how Hawaii‘s endangered species are impacted by being exposed to GE crops. impacted by being exposed to GE crops.

OVERPRODUCTION OF PREVIOUSLY LOW OVERPRODUCTION OF PREVIOUSLY LOW LEVEL TOXINS  ;GMOs cause the LEVEL TOXINS  ;GMOs cause the overproduction of previously low-level natural overproduction of previously low-level natural toxins, which exist in most foods. toxins, which exist in most foods.

In 1989 there was an outbreak of a new disease In 1989 there was an outbreak of a new disease in the US, contracted by over 5,000 people and in the US, contracted by over 5,000 people and traced back to a batch of L-tryptophan food traced back to a batch of L-tryptophan food supplement produced with GM bacteria. supplement produced with GM bacteria.

Even though it contained less than 0.1 per cent Even though it contained less than 0.1 per cent of a highly toxic compound, 37 people died and of a highly toxic compound, 37 people died and 1,500 were left with permanent disabilities.1,500 were left with permanent disabilities.

More may have died, but the American More may have died, but the American Centre for Disease Control stopped counting Centre for Disease Control stopped counting in 1991. The US government declared that it in 1991. The US government declared that it was not GM that was at fault but a failure in was not GM that was at fault but a failure in the purification process. the purification process.

However, the company concerned, Showa However, the company concerned, Showa Denko, admitted that the low-level Denko, admitted that the low-level purification process had been used without purification process had been used without ill effect in non-GM batches. Scientists at ill effect in non-GM batches. Scientists at Showa Denko blame the GM process for Showa Denko blame the GM process for producing traces of a potent new toxin. This producing traces of a potent new toxin. This new toxin had never been found in non-GM new toxin had never been found in non-GM versions of the productversions of the product

NOVEL PROTEINS MEAN NEW ALLERGENS  NOVEL PROTEINS MEAN NEW ALLERGENS  Every time a GMO is produced, new proteins, Every time a GMO is produced, new proteins, or potential allergens are also produced.or potential allergens are also produced.

    GMOs frequently contain allergens, for GMOs frequently contain allergens, for example those allergic to fish may go into example those allergic to fish may go into anaphylactic shock when fish genes are anaphylactic shock when fish genes are placed in potato products.  placed in potato products. 

Soy beans were engineered with Brazil nut Soy beans were engineered with Brazil nut genes.  Many people are allergic to brazil genes.  Many people are allergic to brazil nuts.  The soy was taken off the market.nuts.  The soy was taken off the market.

ANTIBIOTIC RESISTANCE  ANTIBIOTIC RESISTANCE  When creating genetically engineered organisms, When creating genetically engineered organisms, scientists frequently attach an antibiotic resistant scientists frequently attach an antibiotic resistant marker to the gene that they insert into the GMO to marker to the gene that they insert into the GMO to identify which products have been successfully identify which products have been successfully genetically modified. genetically modified. 

This antibiotic resistant gene will be in every single This antibiotic resistant gene will be in every single cell of a genetically modified organism.  These have cell of a genetically modified organism.  These have the potential to increase the growing problem of the potential to increase the growing problem of antibiotic resistance. antibiotic resistance.

HORIZONTAL GENE TRANSFER  HORIZONTAL GENE TRANSFER  "In May, 2000, Professor Hans-Hinrich Katz, a "In May, 2000, Professor Hans-Hinrich Katz, a leading German zoologist, released research that leading German zoologist, released research that shows that genes used to modify crops can jump to shows that genes used to modify crops can jump to other species and cause bacteria to mutate. other species and cause bacteria to mutate. 

Katz found that the gene used to modify oilseed Katz found that the gene used to modify oilseed rape had transferred to bacteria living in the guts of rape had transferred to bacteria living in the guts of honey bees." honey bees." (The Campaign Packet, Threats to the (The Campaign Packet, Threats to the Environment p.10)Environment p.10)

Salmon FarmsSalmon Farms

TROJAN GENES MEAN SPECIES EXTINCTION TROJAN GENES MEAN SPECIES EXTINCTION -  Salmon fish farms are employing "trojan -  Salmon fish farms are employing "trojan genes," or genes that make a species grow to genes," or genes that make a species grow to full size four to six times as quickly as wild full size four to six times as quickly as wild varieties.  varieties. 

During storms, farmed salmon inevitably During storms, farmed salmon inevitably escape into the wild.  Due to their gargantuan escape into the wild.  Due to their gargantuan size, when these GM fish escape into the wild, size, when these GM fish escape into the wild, they have a mating advantage over non-GM they have a mating advantage over non-GM fish. fish. 

However, due to their genetic tweaking, their However, due to their genetic tweaking, their offspring are far less likely to live to offspring are far less likely to live to reproductive age.  Through this process, the reproductive age.  Through this process, the entire species is wiped out in about 40 entire species is wiped out in about 40 generations.  This has the potential to cause generations.  This has the potential to cause irreparable damage to fish populationsirreparable damage to fish populations

Biotech companies have successfully Biotech companies have successfully sued over 300 farmers  for sued over 300 farmers  for unintentionally growing GMO crops on unintentionally growing GMO crops on their land. their land.

Farmers are receiving lower prices for Farmers are receiving lower prices for GMO crops than non-GMO crops GMO crops than non-GMO crops

According to the USDA, between 1996 According to the USDA, between 1996 to 2001, U.S. corn & canola farmers lost to 2001, U.S. corn & canola farmers lost 99.4% of their export market because 99.4% of their export market because they contained GMOs they contained GMOs

GMOs shunned abroad GMOs shunned abroad Consumers in Europe, Japan, and China have told Consumers in Europe, Japan, and China have told

their leaders they don't want GMOs.  their leaders they don't want GMOs.  These countries have strict labeling laws and many These countries have strict labeling laws and many

have moratoriums on GMOs.  have moratoriums on GMOs.  Famine stricken Zambia and Zimbabwe are refusing Famine stricken Zambia and Zimbabwe are refusing

GMO food-aid. GMO food-aid.  Most other governments  have required mandatory Most other governments  have required mandatory

labeling of GMOs and have only allowed a few GM labeling of GMOs and have only allowed a few GM products to be released after rigorous safety products to be released after rigorous safety testing.  testing. 

Meanwhile, in the U.S. while over 85% of U.S. Meanwhile, in the U.S. while over 85% of U.S. consumers polled want labeling of GMO products, consumers polled want labeling of GMO products, our government refuses to require labeling or long our government refuses to require labeling or long term testing and considers GMOs "substantially term testing and considers GMOs "substantially equivalent" to conventional food. equivalent" to conventional food. 

However, they do consider GMOs unique enough to However, they do consider GMOs unique enough to grant utility patents to biotech corporations and grant utility patents to biotech corporations and universities. universities.

RisksRisks History has shown that the destructive consequences of new History has shown that the destructive consequences of new

technologies may not become apparent for many years.  technologies may not become apparent for many years.  When Du Pont started to produce CFCs in 1931, for instance, When Du Pont started to produce CFCs in 1931, for instance,

they were believed to be harmless. they were believed to be harmless.  It was not until 1975 that their potential to destroy the ozone It was not until 1975 that their potential to destroy the ozone

layer was fist recognized and it took a further ten years for this layer was fist recognized and it took a further ten years for this to receive scientific acknowledgement."  to receive scientific acknowledgement."  (Green Peace, Genetic (Green Peace, Genetic Engineering Briefing Pack Jan 2000)Engineering Briefing Pack Jan 2000)

Scientists cannot predict the magnitude of damage that GMOs Scientists cannot predict the magnitude of damage that GMOs may cause, but they do know that GMOs create: may cause, but they do know that GMOs create: • New food allergies and toxins • New food allergies and toxins • Pesticide-resistant pests & herbicide-resistant weeds • Pesticide-resistant pests & herbicide-resistant weeds • Antibiotic resistant diseases • Antibiotic resistant diseases • Genetic contamination of our entire food supply • Genetic contamination of our entire food supply • Decreased biodiversity • Decreased biodiversity • Increased herbicide use• Increased herbicide use

PharmcropsPharmcrops Pharmcrops or biopharmaceuticals are plants or Pharmcrops or biopharmaceuticals are plants or

animals gentically altered to grow drugs or industrial animals gentically altered to grow drugs or industrial chemicals within themselves. These crops have the chemicals within themselves. These crops have the potential to irreversibly pollute our food supply potential to irreversibly pollute our food supply through pollen drift and seed flow. through pollen drift and seed flow.

"Just one mistake by a biotech company and we'll "Just one mistake by a biotech company and we'll be eating other people's prescription drugs in our be eating other people's prescription drugs in our corn flakes", corn flakes", warned Larry Bohlen, director of health warned Larry Bohlen, director of health and environment programs at Friends of the Earth, and environment programs at Friends of the Earth, in a press release.in a press release.

Fears of unapproved GM products accidentally Fears of unapproved GM products accidentally entering the human food supply are not unfounded. entering the human food supply are not unfounded. In late 2000, traces of Starlink, a variety of GM corn In late 2000, traces of Starlink, a variety of GM corn not approved for human consumption, were found in not approved for human consumption, were found in supermarket products in the US.  supermarket products in the US. 

Starlink, according to its creator, the Europe-Starlink, according to its creator, the Europe-based Aventis corporation. Seed companies, based Aventis corporation. Seed companies, farmers, processors and food makers spent farmers, processors and food makers spent over $1 billion and six months trying to get rid over $1 billion and six months trying to get rid of this unwanted GM corn.  of this unwanted GM corn. 

Critics also point out that GM crops can Critics also point out that GM crops can pollinate wild relatives and non-GM fields, with pollinate wild relatives and non-GM fields, with unforeseeable consequences. The presence of unforeseeable consequences. The presence of GM corn has already been documented in rural GM corn has already been documented in rural communities in Mexico, even though communities in Mexico, even though genetically modified crops are prohibited genetically modified crops are prohibited there. there.

Hawaii leads the nation in field test sites Hawaii leads the nation in field test sites for genetically engineered crops such for genetically engineered crops such as corn, coffee, pineapple and papaya. as corn, coffee, pineapple and papaya. The state has 3,275 outdoor testing The state has 3,275 outdoor testing sites comprising an estimated 8,563 sites comprising an estimated 8,563 acres, the report said.acres, the report said.

The seed-corn industry, which deals The seed-corn industry, which deals partly in genetic engineering, is worth partly in genetic engineering, is worth $33 million to $35 million annually for $33 million to $35 million annually for Hawaii. Hawaii.

Hawaii has more test sites per acre than Hawaii has more test sites per acre than any other state in the nation.  any other state in the nation. 

As of November 2002, there were 166 field As of November 2002, there were 166 field test being conducted on over 8,000 acres test being conducted on over 8,000 acres of land.  Genetic Engineering companies of land.  Genetic Engineering companies will not disclose to the public what genetic will not disclose to the public what genetic tests are being done here or where they tests are being done here or where they are being conducted citing the locations as are being conducted citing the locations as "confidential business information." "confidential business information."    

Birds, bees, and wind can carry genetically Birds, bees, and wind can carry genetically engineered pollen great distances where it engineered pollen great distances where it can contaminate other plants.  Genetically can contaminate other plants.  Genetically engineered organisms are alive.  Once engineered organisms are alive.  Once they escape into the environment, they they escape into the environment, they reproduce & mutate. reproduce & mutate. 

This could be fatal to Hawaii’s plants and This could be fatal to Hawaii’s plants and animals, ninety per cent (more than 10,000 animals, ninety per cent (more than 10,000 species) of which exist nowhere else on earth.  species) of which exist nowhere else on earth. 

Currently in Hawaii much time & money is spent Currently in Hawaii much time & money is spent clearing invasive species.  clearing invasive species. 

    Pharmcrops, crops that produce drugs & Pharmcrops, crops that produce drugs & industrial products are being grown on our industrial products are being grown on our islands.  islands. 

Here in Hawaii, part of the AIDS virus and blood Here in Hawaii, part of the AIDS virus and blood thinners have been engineered into corn.  thinners have been engineered into corn. 

These pharmcrops can cross-pollinate with corn These pharmcrops can cross-pollinate with corn for human and animal consumption.  for human and animal consumption. 

We have no way of knowing how close We have no way of knowing how close pharmcrops are being grown to conventional pharmcrops are being grown to conventional food crops. food crops.

Mycogen Seeds & Pioneer Hi-Bred International have Mycogen Seeds & Pioneer Hi-Bred International have already been fined for violating EPA safety regulations already been fined for violating EPA safety regulations on the islands of Molokai and Kauai. on the islands of Molokai and Kauai.

The EPA said Mycogen failed to use appropriate The EPA said Mycogen failed to use appropriate windblocks that prevent the spread of GE corn pollen to windblocks that prevent the spread of GE corn pollen to conventional crops. Pioneer was accused of growing conventional crops. Pioneer was accused of growing its crop 12 miles from their approved location. its crop 12 miles from their approved location.    

On October 2, 2000, the US District Court in On October 2, 2000, the US District Court in Washington, DC determined in Allliance for Bio-Washington, DC determined in Allliance for Bio-Integrity v. Shalala that:  Integrity v. Shalala that: 

The FDA is not regulating GE foods at all. The FDA is not regulating GE foods at all. The FDA’s politically appointed bureaucrats did not The FDA’s politically appointed bureaucrats did not follow the advice and warnings of the agency’s follow the advice and warnings of the agency’s scientific staff about GE foods but disregarded them. scientific staff about GE foods but disregarded them. There is currently significant disagreement among There is currently significant disagreement among scientific experts about the safety of GE foods. For scientific experts about the safety of GE foods. For example, a new study by Joe Cummins reveals that the example, a new study by Joe Cummins reveals that the GE papaya, approved by the FDA, contains allergens.GE papaya, approved by the FDA, contains allergens.

PBARC (U.S. Pacific Basin Agricultural PBARC (U.S. Pacific Basin Agricultural Research Center), based in Hilo & funded Research Center), based in Hilo & funded with many millions of Federal (USDA) with many millions of Federal (USDA) dollars, has plans to bring experimental dollars, has plans to bring experimental genetic engineering projects to our island. genetic engineering projects to our island. Field tests sites for these projects include  Field tests sites for these projects include  Kau, Hamakua and Puna.  Kau, Hamakua and Puna. 

These entirely novel life forms introduced These entirely novel life forms introduced into Hawaii's ecosystem could be fatal to into Hawaii's ecosystem could be fatal to our heritage crops and environment, and our heritage crops and environment, and destroy our plans for successful diversified destroy our plans for successful diversified agriculture and agricultural self-agriculture and agricultural self-sufficiency.  sufficiency.     

Hope for the futureHope for the future

In old Hawai`i, land was managed according In old Hawai`i, land was managed according to the ahupua`a system, which ran from the to the ahupua`a system, which ran from the mountains out to the ocean and which took mountains out to the ocean and which took into account how each activity affected the into account how each activity affected the land’s resources.land’s resources.

Today, in He`eia, a non-profit group hopes to Today, in He`eia, a non-profit group hopes to revive this management system on more revive this management system on more than 600 acres. than 600 acres.

The Center for a Sustainable Future, Inc. has The Center for a Sustainable Future, Inc. has leased the 90-acres He`eia pond and has leased the 90-acres He`eia pond and has plans to lease 405 acres from the state plans to lease 405 acres from the state Hawai`i Community Development Authority.Hawai`i Community Development Authority.

On these lands, the center hopes to practice On these lands, the center hopes to practice sustainable agriculture and teach students sustainable agriculture and teach students about the old farming ways. about the old farming ways.