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Course Description

The Ag Foundations training series builds core agricultural skills through half-day, hands-on sessions covering topics such as soil health, hydroponics, crop production, environmental stewardship, and agribusiness fundamentals. Each session blends practical demonstrations with workforce skill development, connecting applied learning to real career pathways. Participants leave with a stronger understanding of modern agriculture and opportunities in farming, sustainability, and food systems.

Learner Outcomes

  • Describe key concepts in modern agriculture, including sustainable practices, local food systems, and emerging technologies.
  • Apply basic agricultural skills, such as soil care, hydroponics, composting, or food systems mapping.
  • Identify pathways into Hawaiʻi’s agriculture sector, including employment, entrepreneurship, and community engagement.
  • Explain agriculture’s role in food security, community well-being, and economic resilience.

Notes

For questions or any additional information, please contact Vincent Kimura (kimurav@hawaii.edu) 

Prerequisites

Participants must be 18 years or older to register.
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Type
In-Person
Days
Sa
Time
9:30AM to 1:00PM
Dates
Jun 06, 2026
Schedule and Location
View Details
Contact Hours
3.5
Location
Delivery Options
In-person (Oahu)  
Course Fee(s)
Tuition non-credit $35.00
CEUs
0.35 CEUs

Section Notes

Explore the fundamentals of small-scale poultry production in this hands-on, beginner-friendly workshop focused on establishing a backyard egg-laying enterprise. Participants will learn essential care practices, including coop setup, feeding, and daily management for maintaining a healthy, productive flock. The session emphasizes simple, home-based approaches that support food security and self-sufficiency.

Each participant will receive a female egg-laying chick to initiate their own backyard operation, along with guidance on proper care and integration into a home setting. This workshop is designed for adults interested in home food production; no prior experience is required.

Learner Outcomes.  Upon completion of the workshop, participants will be able to:

  • Identify the basic requirements for raising egg-laying chickens at home.

  • Apply fundamental care practices, including feeding and coop maintenance.

  • Set up and manage a small-scale backyard egg-laying operation.

  • Recognize common issues and implement practical solutions to maintain flock health.

About the Instructor

Melanie Hansford is a passionate chicken keeper, educator, and owner of Chick Reveal, an avian DNA testing lab, as well as Moa Aloha, an online poultry shop and community hub. Based in Wahiawā, she and her ʻohana run M&M Hobby Farm, where they raise and breed chickens and quail. Melanie's work is grounded in thoughtful research and hands-on experience, with a focus on supporting others in raising healthy, happy flocks. Melanie is also a founding member of the Hawaiʻi Poultry Connection, where she enjoys sharing knowledge and connecting with fellow poultry enthusiasts.

This is an in-person class to be held at the Ke Alaula Farms in Whitmore Village.

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