Every year we recognize two outstanding cooperators that have done excellent work in implementing their conservation practices and completing their conservation plan.

 Cooperator of the Year Honorees

In October 2026 Hāmākua SWCD and Mauna Kea SWCD teamed up to honor four (4) outstanding cooperators from various communities.  These cooperators have a diverse agriculture background that includes farming, ranching, agroforestry, and/or combination of various agriculture operations.  Hāmākua SWCD, Mauna Kea SWCD, and USDA-NRCS Waimea office would like to thank the four (4) cooperators for their amazing work in implementing their conservation plan, for being stewards of the land, and promoting sustainable land use. 

•  Fujimoto-Bailado Farm & Ranch (Hāmākua SWCD)
• Talking Peace Farm (Hāmākua SWCD)
• Chad & Christina Sohriakoff (Mauna Kea SWCD)
• C&L Ranch  (Mauna Kea SWCD)