MA‘O Organic Farms exists to perpetuate sustainable agricultural practices and empower youth through mentorship and educational programs. A new organic-certified processing facility made possible by an EDA grant will allow the farm to significantly increase agricultural production in the Waiʻanae Valley and expand food distribution to local grocers, markets, and restaurants. The structure includes a covered exterior root wash bay, automated and manual processing equipment, prep kitchen, refrigerated storage, administrative offices, and an expansive covered lanai for educational tours and observation. Large windows add natural ventilation connect to the exterior landscape and orchard. Water management is a primary goal of this project: Rain water is captured and stored; storm water is directed into bioretention swales; wash water is separated into a holding pond for irrigation; grey water and condensate are directed to grey water gardens and is naturally filtered; black water is treated on site and distributed into an absorption bed.
