Located on the Hamaku'a coast, some 20 miles north of Hilo, Hawaii, Piha Farm grows primarily organic vegetables, berries, fruit, eggs and more. Owned and Operated by Scot Sanderson the farm, about 20 acres of pasture, forest, fields, gardens, and greenhouses provides locally grown food for family, neighbors, and local markets.
Sustainability is a philosophy which finds its way into everyday activities on the farm. Secondhand materials often find their way into the construction of buildings at the farm. The "two reason rule" underscores the idea that many items can find a second and third life through creative recycling and reuse. The farm strives to find new ways, better ways, to live in harmony with the local and global environment.
Photovoltaics provide all electrical needs. Rainwater, collected in several catchment systems, provides all water needs.
Scot's unique system of composting creates nutrient rich soils which are used in raised beds, sheltered in two large greenhouses as well as outdoor gardens.
Farm work is supplemented through contributions made by temporary volunteers, provided through the WWOOF Hawaii program. These volunteers make important contributions of their time and labor doing daily chores, working on building projects, and farm maintenance. In return, hands-on experience is offered, with opportunities to learn organic farming, composting, animal husbandry, market sales, construction, and much more. Each day can provide different challenges and opportunities. Volunteers are provided with shelter, a hot shower, food, and occasional transportation to Hilo. Trips to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and the Kona beaches can be arranged.
Interested in "Woof-ing?" Contact WWOOF Hawaii, http://wwoofhawaii.org/ and search Piha Farm. Aloha!
Mauna Kea
The mountain looks over our shoulders.
