In 1867, India gifted nine deer to the Hawaiian islands, unknowingly setting off a chain of events that would lead to an ecological nightmare. Fast forward to today, and the axis deer population on the island of Maui has exploded to about 65,000, with projections reaching a staggering 225,000. This overpopulation has devastated pastoral forage land and vegetation, exacerbating the already scarce resources due to ongoing drought conditions.
However, Jake Muise, CEO/Co-founder of Maui Nui Venison, has come up with a unique solution to tackle the rampant spread of axis deer. By implementing sustainable harvesting methods approved by the USDA, Muise aims to combat overpopulation while protecting the land and supporting the local community.
Muise explains that the axis deer’s unique breeding capabilities, combined with a favorable environment lacking natural predators, have led to their rapid growth. This has resulted in a multitude of issues, including reduced water collection in watersheds, destruction of farmland, and posing a danger on roadways.
Maui Nui Venison’s mission is not only to address the deer problem but also to provide a sustainable business solution that benefits the community and customers. By harvesting the deer humanely and selling the venison commercially, the company has created a premium product that has garnered attention from consumers nationwide.
Despite the for-profit nature of the business, Muise emphasizes the importance of accessibility for local customers. By keeping prices down and implementing innovative distribution methods, such as leaving free bags of venison in local stores, the company ensures that the community can benefit from their efforts.
Overall, Maui Nui Venison’s success lies in their ability to balance conservation efforts with profitability, ultimately leading to a positive impact on both the environment and the local community.