The Field Day and Tour was part of the Risk Management
Schools held in Kona (June7) and Kau (June 9).
Crop & product diversification is a strategy that can help growers
to manage risk. Attendees learned of
research being conducted on two alternative crops, and got to visit an
operation -- Volcano Winery -- where one
of the crops, tea, is being used in a successful new product.
Gathering in the tea field at the Volcano Research
Station. The station is at 4000’ elevation,
and weather can quickly change from sunny & hot to cloudy, wet & cold.
Dr. Stuart Nakamoto talking about the potential of
tea. See the following link for the
results of a market feasibility study on tea:
http://www.ctahr.hawaii.edu/oc/freepubs/pdf/tea_2011.pdf
Agent Randy Hamasaki discussing the harvesting of
tea. Most tea research is being
conducted at CTAHR’s Mealani station in Waimea.
Learning about the cultural management of blueberry rust
disease
Tasting fruit of different blueberry varieties being
tested. Variety trials are one of
several areas being researched.
Participants were able to try their hands at
harvesting
The event included a visit to the Volcano Winery, one of
only three wineries in Hawaii (two also grow grapes).
Mr. Alex Wood leading the tour through the vineyard. Varieties include Symphony and Pinot Noir.
Rows of tea growing at the Volcano Winery amid ohia and
koa trees
Participants were treated to wine sampling including one
infused with tea
Some
tea for sale in the gift shop
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