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The University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resilience (CTAHR) signed a memorandum of understanding with Nani Mau Gardens to expand agricultural education, research and community outreach on Hawaiʻi Island. The 22-acre botanical site in Hilo will serve as an outdoor classroom and research facility for CTAHR students, faculty and the Hawaiʻi Island community.

“This agreement connects our academic, research, and extension programs with a magnificent botanical resource on Hawaiʻi Island,” said CTAHR Dean Parwinder Grewal. “Our students will be trained in real-world settings, while our faculty work alongside community partners to address urgent agricultural challenges facing tropical island ecosystems.”

“Nani Mau has been part of Hilo’s story for more than 50 years,” said Cindy Cui, CEO of Nani Mau Gardens. “Working with CTAHR lets us preserve this landmark while giving it a new purpose: teaching the next generation how to care for our water, our plants and our island.”

Founded in 1970, Nani Mau Gardens houses more than 2,000 species of tropical plants, including flowering trees, palms, fruit crops and native Hawaiian flora. Under the agreement, CTAHR faculty and Cooperative Extension agents will use the botanical grounds for workshops and field research on pest management, soil health, biosecurity and plant propagation techniques suited to island microclimates.

In addition to student learning, the collaboration will support workforce development across the local agricultural sector. CTAHR and Nani Mau Gardens plan to host joint public events, workshops for local farmers and educational tours for school groups throughout the year.