Keeping Pigs and Chickens Using Korean Natural Farming

File photo by Wendy Osher.

The Sustainable Living Institute of Maui will offer a workshop on Korean Natural Farming, arguably one of the healthiest, cleanest ways to raise pigs and chickens, on Dec. 4 and 5, 2015, from 9a.m. to 4 p.m.

Korean Natural Farming is spreading throughout the state. This innovative method using indigenous microorganisms has transformed once-smelly piggeries and chicken coops into clean, odor-free and healthy environments in which to raise pigs and chickens.

As Maui and Hawai‘i work to rebuild a healthy food-producing industry for increased food security, pigs and chickens will be an important part of that expansion. More homesteaders are keeping a flock of chickens for eggs or meat. More small farms are diversifying with pigs as a cash crop.

Day one of the two-day “Korean Natural Farming with Pigs and Chickens” workshop will take place in the classroom at UH Maui College. The class will cover the fundamentals of Korean Natural Farming.

Day 2 will include an off-site visit to a chicken and pig farm using KNF practices.

Instructor Michael Duponte has studied with Master Cho, the originator of Korean Natural Farmer. As the CTAHR Livestock Cooperative Extension Agent, Duponte has taught Korean Natural Farming methodology on all of the Hawaiian Islands, brining his enthusiasm and diverse experience to each of his trainings.

The price for the training is $229. Farmers may apply for ETF tuition assistance two weeks in advance at http://labor.hawaii.gov/wdd/home/employers/etf/ or call 984-2091.

Register online; call SLIM Education Coordinator/Specialist Melanie Stephens at 984-3502 for more information.