The Coffee Chronicles
In May of 2004, the gringo owners of 4 small coffee farms here in Boquete began to meet to share ideas and information, offer support, and figure out just exactly how the heck we were going to grow, market and sell organic coffee. How do we get certified? Where do I get the coffee pulped? Where do I buy bags? What are the problems inherent in growing coffee, organic or otherwise? How do we treat for things like ojo de gallo (literally eye of the rooster) fungus? And rust? And leaf drop? And coffee borers? And, really, what are these things? It was amazing (and overwhelming) how much we didn't know. We optimistically named ourselves BOCA (Boquete Organic Coffee Association). We began to talk, to ask questions, and to listen to the people in Boquete who have been growing coffee for generations. Some said, "Nope. Can't be done. You'll go broke, all your plants will die of fungus." We were nervous, but not shaken in our resolve. We kept asking, and others, (both farmers and processors) said, "Absolutely. We are going organic, too. We'll help you." And they have and continue to do so. (Have I mentioned recently what a wonderful community Boquete is? Or how friendly, helpful and sincere the Panamanian people are? Or how grateful we are to be welcomed into this magical place? It is all true). A year and some months later, it is amazing (and overwhelming) how much we have learned. Thanks in part to Graciano Cruz, a local Panamanian coffee farmer with a passion for protecting and preserving not only the environment, but also the heritage of Boquete, our group has:
More than doubled in size;
Our farm managers have formed a support network for each other
Each of the farms has received its initial provisional organic certification from Bio-Latina, an internationally recognized certifying body; and
We are producing incredibly good coffee.We recently met and changed our name to reflect our production of more than just organic coffee: Productores Organico de Boquete. Organic Producers of Boquete. Watch for our labels and products in local markets in the coming year.So.
Why Organic?
Because. Because it works, it's profitable, it makes sense, and it makes me feel good to be doing my part to preserve and protect this bit of Paradise. Organic is not only the wave of the future. It is our heritage (did they use tons of chemicals a 100 years ago?). It is now. It is a good thing.
Article by: Elizabeth Worley
Article Source: http://dannypanama.com/DPchronicles.htm
