HB2633.DOC

HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES	H.B. NO.	2633
TWENTY-SEVENTH LEGISLATURE, 2014
STATE OF HAWAII

A BILL FOR AN ACT

RELATING TO heritage breed animals.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF HAWAII:

SECTION 1. The legislature finds that heritage breed animals historically were a vital resource for small-scale farmers who often had to endure a changing climate and a growing society. Although there is no agreed-upon definition of heritage breed animals, heritage breed animals are generally considered to be animals that are bred over time to be best adapted to local conditions. Heritage breed animals are usually bred for adaptation to specific regional environments, and this allows heritage breed animals to adapt to changes in their habitat over time. This adaptability also allows the animals to be better suited for small-scale farmers rather than large industrial producers.

According to the Livestock Conservancy, traditional, heritage breeds retain essential attributes for survival and self-sufficiency, such as hardiness, fertility, rapid growth rates, foraging ability, longevity, maternal instincts, ability to mate naturally, and resistance to diseases and parasites. Because heritage breeds are not officially recognized by the United States Department of Agriculture, it is unknown how many heritage breed animals are in existence in the State. However, it is known that many heritage breeds face extinction nationwide. For example, according to the Field Guide to Heritage Cattle, it is estimated that one hundred ninety livestock breeds have become extinct in the past fifteen years and one thousand five hundred more are at risk.

It is believed that there are currently heritage breed sheep and goats in Hawaii that have adapted to the unique climate and terrain. The legislature finds that efforts should be made to conserve Hawaii's unique heritage breed livestock by identifying and studying them, and if possible, acquiring examples of heritage breed species to breed and raise in captivity. The legislature further finds that heritage breed animals are an important livestock option for small farmers and sustainable agriculture, and as such, farmers and the community will benefit from insight into their conservation.

Accordingly, the purpose of this Act is to direct the University of Hawaii college of tropical agriculture and human resources to conduct a study and inventory of heritage breed animals in Hawaii.

SECTION 2. (a) The University of Hawaii college of tropical agriculture and human resources is directed to conduct a study and inventory of heritage breed animals, specifically those breeds that existed in Hawaii prior to 1778. At minimum, the study shall include the following:

(1) A definition of the term "heritage breed animal" as it applies in Hawaii and the identification of any such species in Hawaii;

(2) Identification of any causes or factors that may have or are currently contributing to the decline or extinction of heritage breed animals;

(3) A survey of farmers that are raising heritage breed animals;

(4) An assessment of existing and potential future demand in the State for products derived from heritage breed animals;

(5) An evaluation of the impact of hunting on populations of heritage breed animals; and

(6) An analysis of possible benefits of breeding heritage breed animals in captivity.

(b) In carrying out the duties prescribed in subsection (a), the University of Hawaii college of tropical agriculture and human resources may consult with the following:

(1) The state archives;

(2) Conservation organizations;

(3) State historians;

(4) The United States Department of Agriculture National Agricultural Statistics Service; and

(5) Any other person or entity it deems appropriate.

(c) The University of Hawaii college of tropical agriculture and human resources shall submit its findings and recommendations, including any proposed legislation, to the legislature no later than twenty days prior to the convening of the regular session of 2016.

SECTION 3. There is appropriated out of the general revenues of the State of Hawaii the sum of $ or so much thereof as may be necessary for fiscal year 2014-2015 for the study and inventory of heritage breed animals.

The sum appropriated shall be expended by the University of Hawaii college of tropical agriculture and human resources for the purposes of this Act.

SECTION 4. This Act shall take effect on July 1, 2014.

INTRODUCED BY:	_____________________________