Ka'u Coffee Farmers Assess Damage from Hurricane Lala Just Before Harvest Time – CoffeeTalk

As the remnants of Tropical Storm Moke move westward, Ka‘u coffee growers are assessing the extensive damage inflicted by Hurricane Lala. Gloria Camba, the president of the Ka‘u Coffee Growers Cooperative, noted significant destruction in key areas including Wood Valley and Pear Tree, stating that many coffee trees have toppled over causing devastating losses. Andrea Kawabata, a county agent from the University of Hawaii, emphasized the extensive damage to infrastructure, including roads that have been washed away, impacting access to farms and homes. The flooding and strong winds have adversely affected the coffee crops just before the peak harvest season, with predictions identifying potential losses in the crop value for the 2024-2025 season at around $46.4 million.

Farmers, such as Alla Kostenkos of A Coffee Farm, described the situation as dire, noting severe root damage to trees that may lead to significant losses. She reported losing up to 60% of her trees and lamented the missed opportunity for harvest. Miranda’s Farms also suffered major damage despite the coffee shop remaining relatively unscathed. Maria Miranda mentioned losses of both crops and infrastructure, stating the farm is now a hub for community assistance, providing water and essentials to neighbors in need.

Kona coffee farmers experienced less severe damage, primarily related to wind, but were affected by broken branches from large trees. Bill Myers of Heavenly Hawaiian Kona Coffee Farm indicated the damage to Kona farms is unlikely to alter their expected harvest significantly. However, Suzanne Shriner, HCA vice president, warned that many farms have lost significant soil, considered vital infrastructure, due to the flooding, which cannot be easily replaced.

Overall, recovery for Ka‘u coffee farmers is anticipated to be slow, with indications of resilient community support, yet significant structural and agricultural challenges remain. There is a clear need for affected growers to report their losses to the U.S. Department of Agriculture for potential relief programs as the long-term impacts of this disaster unfold.

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