Kula Country Farms, a family-run upcountry business on Kula Highway, is a favorite stop for both locals and tourists alike. Chauncey Monden, a graduate from the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa and a fourth-generation farmer, took over the family farm in 1998 when his father retired. His wife Teena runs their open-air farm stand that is stocked with their home-grown strawberries, onions, assorted vegetables, pumpkins, fresh-baked good, and more. Most recently, their daughter Tess opened a smoothie, tea, and coffee truck next to the farm stand. 

“We started the stand because we wanted to promote local agriculture and to sell directly to customers,” Chauncey said. “Our specialty crops like year-round strawberries give us that opportunity. One of the benefits of being a farmer is the gratification you feel when you produce a consistent product that people keep coming back for.” 

Teena’s creativity keeps the stand continually growing, which helps keep the farm going. “Twice a year, usually April and October, the farm allows visitors to pick their own fresh strawberries,” Teena noted. “During the fall, the farm opens its now-famous pumpkin patch to literally thousands of residents looking for fresh gourds or pumpkins for Halloween. All ages love it!”  

The stand’s product line is always increasing, and the Mondens are exploring new ways to hold events at the farm. “Everything is fresh from our fields, and some homegrown items are from our neighbors,” Teena added. “On the third Saturday of each month, Kula Country Farms hosts a popular craft fair with locally made items. In addition, we can host weddings and special events.”  

Naturally, there are always challenges. The Mondens shared that the market has changed, finding employees has become more challenging, and supplies needed for farming are more expensive than ever. Even the weather has altered over time. “Still, we have a deep commitment to continue our farming legacy and to support agriculture on Maui.”  

Chauncey and Teena have hosted students as part of the STEMworks Agriculture Business and Technology Internship Program to help foster the next generation of farmers. “We believe that the internship experience provides valuable work-based learning for students who not only gain technical skills but also have the chance to explore career pathways in different ag fields,” they said. “The students learn about hard work, patience, and most importantly, gratefulness.”