Otsuji Family Farm in Hawaii Kai
Just mauka and behind the tennis courts of Kaiser High, are hidden a few still-active farms terraced on the slope of Koko Head Crater. Ed Otsuji has been farming more than 40 years. But as the availability of fresh produce through the big-box stores and farmer's markets increased, his farm income declined. In 2008, long-time friend Norrin Lau organized a program to sell a box of fresh vegetables for $10 directly at the farm, and since then, business has turned around.
Otsuji uses certified organic pesticides and the terraced slope preserves the soil and prevents runoff. Since you pick them up at the growing grounds, you know the veggies are fresh! In his $10 box you will find bok choy, choy sum, green onion, Anuenue lettuce, Bambi lettuce, turnip, and daikcon. He also sells beets, gai choy, kale, radish, spinach, herbs, squash, tomatoes, papaya, eggplant, and sweet potato leaves in season.
The address is 459 Pakala st. Visit them on Friday afternoons from 4:00pm-6:30 pm or on Saturday mornings from 8:00am-11:00am. Boxes are limited so reserve a box by contacting Isaac Lau at 395-4131 and leave your name and number, or email him at njti4@hotmail.com. Make sure you let them know if you want the box for Friday or Saturday. Visit the Otsuji Farm for more information.
The family's mission statement is simple: "Our wish is that you will find value in getting farm fresh produce and want to get fresh vegetables on a regular basis. After you pick up your first box, we will send you a reminder for your next pickup two or three weeks later."
Enjoy!
Barbara Abe, Realtor
barbara@barbarashawaii.com