Description
Rio Ocho – Guatemala
High Altitude Coffee and Community Engagement
Discover the coffee from the Rio Ocho farm in Guatemala, cultivated by a community of 24 small-scale producers of the Mam ethnic group in the imposing mountains of Chimaltenango, Guatemala. Located between 1,600 and 2,000 meters above sea level, with an average altitude of 1,815 meters above sea level, this farm combines clay-loam soil with little rockiness that allows for proper root development. Responsible nutrient management is based on soil analysis, seeking to provide the plants with what they need to guarantee coffee of exceptional quality. Living barriers and mulches are implemented to prevent the loss of soil richness during rainfall, ensuring environmental conservation.
Challenge on the Chimaltenango Slopes
The Rio Ocho farm is located in a region of steep slopes, with gradients exceeding 50%, making coffee cultivation a challenge and a labor of dedication. The group of producers has been part of the FECCEG cooperative since 2013, enabling the marketing of their coffee with a volume of between 4,000 and 5,000 quintals of parchment. This group of farmers not only produces coffee, but also honey and grows forest trees to conserve water sources, in addition to establishing fruit trees that provide natural shade for the coffee trees.
Sustainable Practices and Productive Projects
Rio Ocho producers are experts in sustainable practices and productive diversification. The farm carries out productive projects supported by the Fairtrade Premium, such as coffee plantation renovation, the use of foliar biofertilizer for coffee, and the production of organic fertilizer. Coffee nurseries and shade diversification projects using honey-producing species have been implemented, as well as a goat project that provides additional income and improves the community's quality of life.
Sustainable Soil Management
At Rio Ocho, sustainability is also present in soil management. In addition to the predominant coffee crop, corn and beans are grown on a small scale as part of subsistence crops. Coffee plants are fertilized with organic fertilizer, and mulch is used to manage soil cover, ensuring soil conservation and nutrient retention.
Training and Community Development
In addition to their agricultural work, producers participate in training workshops on gender equity, coffee certification, and financial education, promoting a comprehensive approach to sustainable community development.
A Coffee with History and Flavor
Rio Ocho coffee – Guatemala is not only a delicious cup full of complex flavors, but also a reflection of collective effort and a deep commitment to the environment and the community, ensuring consistent and sustainable production over the years.
