EAT THINK DRINK
Hawaiʻi’s $673 million agricultural industry is under siege. From the Coffee Berry Borer, which has devastated local coffee farms since 2010, to the Little Fire Ant, which could cause an estimated $194 million in damages annually, invasive species are threatening our food security, ecosystems, and economy. Managing just five invasive species over five years could cost over $82.9 million, highlighting the urgent need for stronger biosecurity measures to protect Hawaiʻi’s farms.
Join Hawai‘i Agricultural Foundation and Central Pacific Bank for EAT THINK DRINK on April 1st, where we will explore how the state, industry stakeholders, and the public can collaborate to strengthen biosecurity policies, enhance enforcement, and build community support.
Our keynote speaker will be global biosecurity expert Mike Inglis, Regional Commissioner at the Ministry for Primary Industries in New Zealand. The country is leading the fight against invasive threats, and Mike has spent years working to protect New Zealand’s $54 billion agricultural industry. He will share insights on how New Zealand has successfully managed invasive species through strict policies, early detection, and rapid response protocols — offering valuable lessons for Hawaiʻi.
Following the keynote, Ulalia Woodside Lee of The Nature Conservancy will moderate a conversation with industry leaders, policymakers, and farmers who will discuss the economic and ecological impacts of invasive species and how collaboration is key to strengthening Hawaiʻi’s biosecurity efforts.
- Chelsea Arnott, Invasive Species Coordinator, Department of Land and Natural Resources – Division of Forestry and Wildlife
- Sharon Hurd, Hawaiʻi Department of Agriculture
- Mark “Uncle Mark” Paikuli-Stride, Generational Kalo Farmer of Luluku
- Ku‘uhaku T. Park, Senior Vice President – Government and Community Relations, Matson
MEET OUR SPEAKERS
Our next EAT THINK DRINK is an extraordinary opportunity to hear from a global leader who has successfully fought back against some of the very threats Hawai‘i now faces. And learn how community action and smart policy can turn the tide against invasive species.
And, enjoy a one-of-a-kind grazing experience where Hawai‘i chefs will transform invasive species into delicious dishes.
- Chef Kealoha Domingo, Nui Kealoha
- Chef Ed Kenney, Chef & Restaurateur
- Chef Jeremy Shigekane, Prince Waikiki
- Chef Jon Matsubara, Feast
MEET OUR CHEFS
EAT THINK DRINK is presented by Central Pacific Bank with support from Alexander & Baldwin, Bayer, Hawaii Longline Association, Kamehameha Schools, Lendlease, Prince Waikiki, State of Hawai‘i, Ulupono Initiative, United Airlines, United Fishing Agency Ltd., and Y. Hata & Co.
MUST BE 21 YEARS OF AGE OR OLDER. No one under the age of 21 will be admitted to the event. Please bring valid government-issued photo I.D.
Support HAF
Contributions go directly to supporting local farmers, ag education and outreach programs.