Maui, Hawaii, is home to a unique tradition in agriculture that many may not be familiar with, primarily the cultivation of pineapple.
Rudy Balala, the General Manager of Maui Gold Pineapple, has spent nearly five decades in this business, starting as a seasonal worker at the ripe age of 14.
His journey began in the summer of 1979, working his way through various roles in the pineapple industry before assuming managerial responsibilities.
He embarked on the path with aspirations of becoming a carpenter after college, but circumstances led him back to the fields of his youth.
As Balala points out, the process of growing pineapple is intricate and labor-intensive, reflecting a tradition that has persisted in Hawaii for over a century.
Pineapple cultivation typically spans 18 months before the first harvest, with subsequent crops taking an additional 15 to 16 months each, allowing each plant to produce for about four years before replanting begins.
In contrast to modern mechanized farming techniques, much of the work involved in pineapple farming is still executed by hand.
Harvesting, planting, and packing are all labor-intensive processes, necessitating skilled workers to perform these tasks.
Unfortunately, finding dedicated workers has become a growing challenge for Balala and others in the industry, compounded by the allure of jobs in Hawaii’s booming tourism sector.
Many potential workers are drawn to roles in retail, hospitality, and food service rather than staying in agriculture, leading to a significant decline in employment and acreage dedicated to pineapple farming on Maui.
Where once more than 10,000 acres of pineapple flourished with a workforce of over 2,000, the numbers today have dwindled to just about 300 acres tended by 23 employees at Maui Gold Pineapple.
This downturn represents a broader trend within Hawaii’s agricultural sector, as farming continues to face challenges in attracting workers.
Despite these difficulties, the organization’s commitment to quality and traditional farming practices remains steadfast.
Balala’s deep understanding of pineapple cultivation, gained through years of hands-on experience, allows him to educate visitors and dispel myths regarding pineapple growth.
Many tourists are surprised to learn that pineapples do not grow on trees, a common misconception.
During farm tours, visitors witness the meticulous process involved in producing a high-quality pineapple and often leave with a newfound appreciation for the labor that goes into growing this beloved fruit.
Maui Gold Pineapple emphasizes its locally grown fruit, famed for its superior quality, and uses farm tours not only to educate guests but also to generate sales through an online store.
This commercial initiative, coupled with the allure of fresh pineapple and the picturesque farm setting, creates a beneficial cycle that supports both the farm’s operations and the local economy.
Balala takes pride in showcasing the farm to visitors, often leading tours when his schedule permits.
His objective is to share the agricultural richness of Hawaii with tourists and locals alike, emphasizing the ongoing importance of the pineapple industry.
As Balala eloquently states, understanding pineapple’s history enriches visitors’ experiences, weaving together the threads of various cultures that contribute to Hawaii’s agricultural landscape.
The journey of pineapple from its origins in South America to its prominence in Hawaiian culture symbolizes the blending of diverse traditions and communities, making it an essential part of the island’s identity.
Overall, the story of Maui Gold Pineapple, as narrated by Rudy Balala, serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by traditional agriculture in the modern world while showcasing the beauty and importance of sustaining these time-honored practices in Hawaii.
image source from：https://www.agriculture.com/how-is-pineapple-farmed-a-hawaii-grower-shares-the-sweet-details-11745028
