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A Trip to Africa: Day 7 – All Things Revealed
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A Trip to Africa: Day 7 – All Things Revealed
In January 2014, CEO & Co-Founder Paul Katzeff traveled to Africa to meet with two of our producer cooperatives. In this blog series, Paul shares his experience in Uganda and Rwanda.
This knowledge thoroughly pissed me off…I was about as angry as a wasp being chased by a Zebra! But what good was anger? It was good for motivation to confront the duplicity while still in Uganda. And that is what we did. We asked for a second meeting with the Cooperative Board to discuss the matter of the 250 sacks…being sold directly to one of Thanksgiving’s wholesale coffee accounts. That “customer” had become aware Mirembe Kawomera through the media’s reports on my company’s decade-long collaboration with Mirembe Kawomera Cooperative. So, that was my beef. Why did the cooperative not see this end-around? Why did this important customer go around the roaster who they came to for a proposed collaboration?There are always many stories in a screenplay, such as the one Nick and I found us in. And, we were in Uganda, about to be in a semi-barren second floor meeting room, just chairs and walls not yet painted.
We sat together for three hours with the board and I expressed my surprise to learn that we had different ideas about our relationship and by open discussion, with many pointed questions (“where are the payment records for those coffees?”) and much talk about Transparency. Everybody knew something was wrong. There were those that were in on the deal and those who knew for the first time that “a deal went down” and they were not a part of it. There was a lot of discovery but nothing was revealed. No one got hurt in the scuffle. There were no indelible scars that would hinder future Trust developing.
Five concrete measures were decided on as a result of the conversations and cross conversations:
- A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Thanksgiving Coffee Company and The Mirembe Kawomera Cooperative is needed so as to define the authorities and responsibilities, and the quantifiable goals and objectives of each Business.
- That the Cooperative members could produce four containers yearly and to be successful, it needed to have the financing to be able to purchase cherry or parchment from their members.
- The Washing Station needed to be expanded from being able to process one container to two containers by August 2014.
- Solar Driers needed to be installed to handle the increased volume of washed coffee.
- Thanksgiving Coffee had not expanded the roasted retail market in The USA to meet the needs of the cooperatives members. If Thanksgiving Coffee was to keep its exclusive relationship with the PK Cooperative, it was going to have to find homes for the three containers it did not purchase.
It was late afternoon and the heat of mid day was just a sweet memory. The sun was low and there was an orange tint to the air and everything solid and in the sunlight’s way. The meeting disbursed in a flurry of people going off in different directions amid the “good nights” and “see you tomorrows”. We covered a lot of ground during that meeting. It was a workout but through it I learned about the people I was going to be working with. We had discovered a “problem of ethics” and came to terms with no blame placed, and no sermons either. The room was filled with people who knew “when to leave well enough alone”. We all got it, so we moved on.
And so the long day ended at our very fancy hotel where JB and Juma joined us at the pool. JB is the Cooperatives GM and Juma is the Special Projects Director. They are payed by the cooperative to run the coop’s operations.
To be continued...
-Paul
A Trip to Africa (series archive)
Day 2 – Dancing, Mango Trees & the Dry Mill
Day 4 – Transparency, Trust & Relationships
Day 5 - Coffee Quality & A New Mystery
Day 6 – The Mystery Coffee’s Story
Recommended Reading
Back to the Blog-
![How To Grow Coffee Trees]()
The Roots of Your Morning Brew: Understanding the Coffee Plant
For many, coffee is the ritualistic start to the day, a beloved beverage that energizes and comforts. Yet, beyond the steaming cups and aromatic brews lies the coffee plant, a botanical wonder that is the genesis of every coffee lover’s journey. At the heart of Thanksgiving Coffee Company is a deep appreciation for this living tree source—the company respects and values the entire process, from the nurturing soil that cradles the seed to the satisfying sip that completes the circle. We have been connecting to this plant by growing our own coffee trees right here for many years.
Coffee Trees Growing at the Thanksgiving Coffee Company Office
Anatomy of the Coffee Plant: More Than Just Beans
The coffee plant, with its glossy green leaves and ripe cherries, is both an aesthetic marvel and a complex organism. Beneath the soil, its roots anchor the plant and absorb vital nutrients. Above ground, the leaves play a crucial role in photosynthesis, while the bright red cherries house the precious beans inside. It's these beans that, once processed and roasted, give rise to the alluring aromas and rich flavors that characterize each cup of coffee.
Varied Flavors: The Many Varieties of Coffee Plants
Ripe coffee cherries on the Arabica coffee tree grown at the office
When you think of coffee, the two dominant species: Arabica and Robusta, likely come to mind. Arabica is prized for its smoother, more nuanced taste, while Robusta is revered for its robustness and higher caffeine content. However, there exists a myriad of lesser-known varieties, each with its own unique flavor profile, waiting to be discovered by eager coffee connoisseurs.
From the Soil to your first Sip: How Terroir Affects Your Coffee
Like fine wine, coffee is influenced by its terroir—the environment in which it's grown. The climate, soil composition, and even the angle of sunlight on the slopes where coffee plants thrive collectively contribute to the coffee's flavor profile. These factors, often subtle and complex, define a coffee's body, acidity, and notes, creating an array of tastes as diverse as the landscapes from which they come.
Ripe cherries harvested from our coffee trees.
Ready to Discover the Flavor of Your Own Coffee
If you are inspired to develop a closer relationship with your coffee and want to lean into the root system of your daily coffee ritual, we have a series for you. Our co-founder Paul Katzeff has been growing coffee trees at home for years, and will lead you through his process.
Check out the series:
Part I: The Beauty of Growing Coffee Trees in Your Home
Part II: All you Need to Know About Growing Coffee Trees At Home
Part III: Caring For Your Coffee Tree
Coffee Tree Source:
Lavender Grace is the Sustainability Consultant for Thanksgiving Coffee Company.
How To Grow Coffee Trees
read more -
![Women Powering Change: SOPPEXCCA's Revolutionary Approach to Economic Justice in Coffee]()
The Story Of SOPPEXCCA: Empowerment Through Coffee
In the verdant highlands of Jinotega, Nicaragua, a revolutionary approach to gender equity is transforming the coffee industry. Led by the visionary Fátima Ismael, SOPPEXCCA cooperative operates on a powerful belief: "Women's independence can only be achieved through economic autonomy and awareness."
"This groundbreaking initiative doesn't just produce exceptional coffee – it creates a model for sustainable economic justice." – Thanksgiving Coffee Company
What makes this partnership unique is SOPPEXCCA's pioneering recognition of women's traditionally invisible contributions to coffee production. This approach addresses a global challenge documented extensively by international organizations including the United Nations.
Fátima Ismael, SOPPEXCCA'S General Manager
The $40,000 Unpaid Work Fund: Valuing Invisible Labor
Since 2013, Thanksgiving Coffee Company has committed an additional $0.10 per pound of green coffee purchased from SOPPEXCCA – specifically allocated to recognize women's unpaid work. This initiative has now generated over $40,000 supporting women's economic empowerment.
The Global Context of Unpaid Labor
According to UN Women research:
- Unpaid care work is essential to functioning economies but often goes uncounted and unrecognized
- Women—particularly from low-income, migrant, and racialized groups—perform more than three-quarters of unpaid care and domestic work globally
- If women's unpaid work were assigned monetary value, it would exceed up to 40% of GDP in some countries
Measurable Impact in Nicaragua
The SOPPEXCCA initiative has created transformative changes for women:
- Improved relationships among women in rural communities
- Increased active participation in economic decision-making processes
- Development of creative potential within family economies
- Financial independence through personal savings accounts
- Growing cooperative membership among women
"8 March ... Day of commemoration and new commitments for a world of equality, equity and respect .. Greetings female producers, friends and companions who have been with this organization on their way that has not been easy but together we have overcome a thousand adversities and will continue to be fighting ..." Soppexcca
Woman Farmers of Soppexcca Cooperative - Jinotego, Nicaragua
Environmental Stewardship Meets Social Justice
Shade Grown Coffee: Critical Habitat for Migratory Songbirds
SOPPEXCCA's commitment extends beyond economic justice. Their shade-grown cultivation methods create essential winter habitats for migratory songbirds, demonstrating how sustainable agriculture directly contributes to biodiversity conservation.
"When you choose SOPPEXCCA coffee, you're supporting both women's empowerment and environmental stewardship – values at the heart of Thanksgiving Coffee Company."
Woman Farmers from the Soppexxcca Cooperative - Jinotega, Nicaragua
The Economic Impact Of Ethical Investment
UN Women's research reveals that investing in care infrastructure creates three times more jobs than equivalent investment in construction, with 70-90% of these jobs benefiting women.
The SOPPEXCCA fund represents precisely this kind of strategic investment.
Read about our support for the women of Soppexcca:
"Recognizing the Value of Womens Unpaid Work".
Celebrate the Women Coffee Farmers of Soppexcca
Try this delicious coffee and support a more balanced and just economy for the women of Soppexcca.
Lavender Grace is the Sustainability Consultant for Thanksgiving Coffee Company.
Women Powering Change: SOPPEXCCA's Revolutionary Approach to Economic Justice in Coffee
read more -
![Roots & Regeneration: Pioneering Regenerative Agriculture]()
Pioneering Regenerative Agriculture
High in Nicaragua's pristine Arenal Forest Reserve, at 1,500 meters above sea level, Finca los Pinos stands as a testament to agricultural transformation. Here, Byron Corrales and his family have spent over four decades pioneering a different way of farming coffee. Since embracing organic practices in 1986, they've developed an innovative approach that works in perfect harmony with nature. Through their dedication to biodynamic farming, they've not only twice earned top honors for their extraordinary coffee, but they've also created a model for sustainable agriculture that's changing how we think about coffee cultivation.
Sarah Corrales on her families coffee farm
Byron Corrales hugging a tree on his family coffee farm
A Legacy of Excellence
Our relationship with the Corrales family spans three generations, witnessing their evolution from traditional farming to becoming leaders in biodynamic agriculture. Byron's innovative spirit led him to develop the exceptional Maracaturra variety, a unique hybrid that produces remarkably large beans – distinctively bigger than typical Arabica coffee beans. This size isn't just for show; it allows for exceptional taste elements that smaller beans simply cannot achieve, delivering a remarkable sweetness and richness in every cup.
Benita Corrales, Byron's mother
The first meeting with Thanksgiving Coffee Company in 1992- Left Byron Corrales, Right Arnulfo Corrales
Arnulfo Corrales, Byron's father
Left to right - Thanksgiving Coffee's Co-Founder Paul Katzeff, Byron Corrales, and Nick Hodgkins (Etico -The ethical trading company)
the Art Of Processing
Byron with drying natural Maracaturra coffee beans.
Corrales' artisanal approach to processing begins long before the cherries reach the beneficio (drying patio). On his farm, every element serves an integral function in creating exceptional coffee. This includes the carefully selected forage crops sustaining his cattle, whose manure enriches the compost used around the coffee trees, as well as the diverse pollinators - from honeybees to other beneficial insects - that support optimal cherry development.
For Corrales, successful coffee processing stems from creating a balanced, thriving ecosystem that produces the highest quality cherries possible for processing. This foundation of environmental harmony directly influences the clarity and complexity of his final cup.
The Natural process is when the coffee cherries are dried whole, without removing the pulp or using water or machines, and has become Byron’s preferred method for many reasons, as he explained in this video. It is a very good choice to reduce the use of fossil fuels and for water conservation, as well as the added antioxidant health benefits.
The Living Systems Of Los Pinos
At Finca los Pinos, every element serves multiple purposes in an intricate dance of mutual support:
- Native and planted trees provide essential shade and soil health
- Free-ranging cattle contribute to natural fertilization cycles
- Coffee cherry pulp (cascara) is recycled into nutritious cattle feed
- Birds and beneficial insects maintain natural pest control
- Pine trees create unique conditions that enhance both soil and coffee quality
Los Pinos coffee farm looking out over the forest
Soil: The Foundation of Life
Byron Corrales with his hands full of soil
Byron's approach to soil health demonstrates the core principles of regenerative agriculture. "The farmers that produce with agrochemicals and herbicides destroy the life of the soil," he observes. "We protect it." This protection includes:
- Maintaining ground cover to retain moisture
- Supporting microorganism and mycorrhizal networks
- Using natural fertilization methods
- Working with, rather than against, natural processes
“I feel really happy that those who drink my coffee are drinking a cup of life”
Byron Corrales
Climate Resilience Through Diversity
Great video produced by Viva La Finca - Virtual origin experience - Byron Corrales of Finca Los Pinos
Understanding the challenges of climate change, Byron has implemented robust adaptation strategies:
- Diverse tree species for enhanced shade coverage
- Strengthened soil biology
- Natural mineral enrichment
- Water conservation systems
The Unique Maracaturra Experience
This regenerative approach culminates in the cultivation of Maracaturra, a special variety found only at Finca los Pinos. This unique hybrid of Maragoype and Caturra (Bourbon) produces a truly exceptional coffee with:
- Juicy apricot aromatics
- Rich cashew nuttiness
- A deeply toned sweet cacao finish
- Remarkable sweetness unique to the large bean size
- Complex flavor elements impossible to achieve with conventional varieties
A Vision for the Future
"I want to transmit our family's art, our work of many years, discovering the flavors we've learned to bring forth from our mountains, expressed in this cup by way of respect for our environment," Byron shares. This respect for environment and commitment to regenerative practices creates coffee that is, in Byron's words, "the expression of life and the life energy of all the living beings who live in our community."
The Corrales Family from one of our origin trips.
Sold outEach cup of Byron's coffee embodies a powerful truth: regenerative agriculture can produce extraordinary coffee while healing the earth.
Our Byron's Blend is where ancient farming wisdom meets modern artistry. By masterfully combining washed and natural processed Maracaturra coffees, we create a harmonious cup that showcases the finest expressions of both methods. The result is more than a blend – it's a testament to coffee craftsmanship at its peak.
As Byron himself reminds us with characteristic wisdom: we are "celebrating with joy the responsibility of protecting the future of our generations." In every sip, you taste that promise.
Lavender Grace is the Sustainability Consultant for Thanksgiving Coffee Company.
Roots & Regeneration: Pioneering Regenerative Agriculture
read more
The Roots of Your Morning Brew: Understanding the Coffee Plant
For many, coffee is the ritualistic start to the day, a beloved beverage that energizes and comforts. Yet, beyond the steaming cups and aromatic brews lies the coffee plant, a botanical wonder that is the genesis of every coffee lover’s journey. At the heart of Thanksgiving Coffee Company is a deep appreciation for this living tree source—the company respects and values the entire process, from the nurturing soil that cradles the seed to the satisfying sip that completes the circle. We have been connecting to this plant by growing our own coffee trees right here for many years.
Coffee Trees Growing at the Thanksgiving Coffee Company Office
Anatomy of the Coffee Plant: More Than Just Beans
The coffee plant, with its glossy green leaves and ripe cherries, is both an aesthetic marvel and a complex organism. Beneath the soil, its roots anchor the plant and absorb vital nutrients. Above ground, the leaves play a crucial role in photosynthesis, while the bright red cherries house the precious beans inside. It's these beans that, once processed and roasted, give rise to the alluring aromas and rich flavors that characterize each cup of coffee.
Varied Flavors: The Many Varieties of Coffee Plants
Ripe coffee cherries on the Arabica coffee tree grown at the office
When you think of coffee, the two dominant species: Arabica and Robusta, likely come to mind. Arabica is prized for its smoother, more nuanced taste, while Robusta is revered for its robustness and higher caffeine content. However, there exists a myriad of lesser-known varieties, each with its own unique flavor profile, waiting to be discovered by eager coffee connoisseurs.
From the Soil to your first Sip: How Terroir Affects Your Coffee
Like fine wine, coffee is influenced by its terroir—the environment in which it's grown. The climate, soil composition, and even the angle of sunlight on the slopes where coffee plants thrive collectively contribute to the coffee's flavor profile. These factors, often subtle and complex, define a coffee's body, acidity, and notes, creating an array of tastes as diverse as the landscapes from which they come.
Ripe cherries harvested from our coffee trees.
Ready to Discover the Flavor of Your Own Coffee
If you are inspired to develop a closer relationship with your coffee and want to lean into the root system of your daily coffee ritual, we have a series for you. Our co-founder Paul Katzeff has been growing coffee trees at home for years, and will lead you through his process.
Check out the series:
Part I: The Beauty of Growing Coffee Trees in Your Home
Part II: All you Need to Know About Growing Coffee Trees At Home
Part III: Caring For Your Coffee Tree
Coffee Tree Source:
Lavender Grace is the Sustainability Consultant for Thanksgiving Coffee Company.
How To Grow Coffee Trees
read more
The Story Of SOPPEXCCA: Empowerment Through Coffee
In the verdant highlands of Jinotega, Nicaragua, a revolutionary approach to gender equity is transforming the coffee industry. Led by the visionary Fátima Ismael, SOPPEXCCA cooperative operates on a powerful belief: "Women's independence can only be achieved through economic autonomy and awareness."
"This groundbreaking initiative doesn't just produce exceptional coffee – it creates a model for sustainable economic justice." – Thanksgiving Coffee Company
What makes this partnership unique is SOPPEXCCA's pioneering recognition of women's traditionally invisible contributions to coffee production. This approach addresses a global challenge documented extensively by international organizations including the United Nations.
Fátima Ismael, SOPPEXCCA'S General Manager
The $40,000 Unpaid Work Fund: Valuing Invisible Labor
Since 2013, Thanksgiving Coffee Company has committed an additional $0.10 per pound of green coffee purchased from SOPPEXCCA – specifically allocated to recognize women's unpaid work. This initiative has now generated over $40,000 supporting women's economic empowerment.
The Global Context of Unpaid Labor
According to UN Women research:
- Unpaid care work is essential to functioning economies but often goes uncounted and unrecognized
- Women—particularly from low-income, migrant, and racialized groups—perform more than three-quarters of unpaid care and domestic work globally
- If women's unpaid work were assigned monetary value, it would exceed up to 40% of GDP in some countries
Measurable Impact in Nicaragua
The SOPPEXCCA initiative has created transformative changes for women:
- Improved relationships among women in rural communities
- Increased active participation in economic decision-making processes
- Development of creative potential within family economies
- Financial independence through personal savings accounts
- Growing cooperative membership among women
"8 March ... Day of commemoration and new commitments for a world of equality, equity and respect .. Greetings female producers, friends and companions who have been with this organization on their way that has not been easy but together we have overcome a thousand adversities and will continue to be fighting ..." Soppexcca
Woman Farmers of Soppexcca Cooperative - Jinotego, Nicaragua
Environmental Stewardship Meets Social Justice
Shade Grown Coffee: Critical Habitat for Migratory Songbirds
SOPPEXCCA's commitment extends beyond economic justice. Their shade-grown cultivation methods create essential winter habitats for migratory songbirds, demonstrating how sustainable agriculture directly contributes to biodiversity conservation.
"When you choose SOPPEXCCA coffee, you're supporting both women's empowerment and environmental stewardship – values at the heart of Thanksgiving Coffee Company."
Woman Farmers from the Soppexxcca Cooperative - Jinotega, Nicaragua
The Economic Impact Of Ethical Investment
UN Women's research reveals that investing in care infrastructure creates three times more jobs than equivalent investment in construction, with 70-90% of these jobs benefiting women.
The SOPPEXCCA fund represents precisely this kind of strategic investment.
Read about our support for the women of Soppexcca:
"Recognizing the Value of Womens Unpaid Work".
Celebrate the Women Coffee Farmers of Soppexcca
Try this delicious coffee and support a more balanced and just economy for the women of Soppexcca.
Lavender Grace is the Sustainability Consultant for Thanksgiving Coffee Company.
Women Powering Change: SOPPEXCCA's Revolutionary Approach to Economic Justice in Coffee
read more
Pioneering Regenerative Agriculture
High in Nicaragua's pristine Arenal Forest Reserve, at 1,500 meters above sea level, Finca los Pinos stands as a testament to agricultural transformation. Here, Byron Corrales and his family have spent over four decades pioneering a different way of farming coffee. Since embracing organic practices in 1986, they've developed an innovative approach that works in perfect harmony with nature. Through their dedication to biodynamic farming, they've not only twice earned top honors for their extraordinary coffee, but they've also created a model for sustainable agriculture that's changing how we think about coffee cultivation.
Sarah Corrales on her families coffee farm
Byron Corrales hugging a tree on his family coffee farm
A Legacy of Excellence
Our relationship with the Corrales family spans three generations, witnessing their evolution from traditional farming to becoming leaders in biodynamic agriculture. Byron's innovative spirit led him to develop the exceptional Maracaturra variety, a unique hybrid that produces remarkably large beans – distinctively bigger than typical Arabica coffee beans. This size isn't just for show; it allows for exceptional taste elements that smaller beans simply cannot achieve, delivering a remarkable sweetness and richness in every cup.
Benita Corrales, Byron's mother
The first meeting with Thanksgiving Coffee Company in 1992- Left Byron Corrales, Right Arnulfo Corrales
Arnulfo Corrales, Byron's father
Left to right - Thanksgiving Coffee's Co-Founder Paul Katzeff, Byron Corrales, and Nick Hodgkins (Etico -The ethical trading company)
the Art Of Processing
Byron with drying natural Maracaturra coffee beans.
Corrales' artisanal approach to processing begins long before the cherries reach the beneficio (drying patio). On his farm, every element serves an integral function in creating exceptional coffee. This includes the carefully selected forage crops sustaining his cattle, whose manure enriches the compost used around the coffee trees, as well as the diverse pollinators - from honeybees to other beneficial insects - that support optimal cherry development.
For Corrales, successful coffee processing stems from creating a balanced, thriving ecosystem that produces the highest quality cherries possible for processing. This foundation of environmental harmony directly influences the clarity and complexity of his final cup.
The Natural process is when the coffee cherries are dried whole, without removing the pulp or using water or machines, and has become Byron’s preferred method for many reasons, as he explained in this video. It is a very good choice to reduce the use of fossil fuels and for water conservation, as well as the added antioxidant health benefits.
The Living Systems Of Los Pinos
At Finca los Pinos, every element serves multiple purposes in an intricate dance of mutual support:
- Native and planted trees provide essential shade and soil health
- Free-ranging cattle contribute to natural fertilization cycles
- Coffee cherry pulp (cascara) is recycled into nutritious cattle feed
- Birds and beneficial insects maintain natural pest control
- Pine trees create unique conditions that enhance both soil and coffee quality
Los Pinos coffee farm looking out over the forest
Soil: The Foundation of Life
Byron Corrales with his hands full of soil
Byron's approach to soil health demonstrates the core principles of regenerative agriculture. "The farmers that produce with agrochemicals and herbicides destroy the life of the soil," he observes. "We protect it." This protection includes:
- Maintaining ground cover to retain moisture
- Supporting microorganism and mycorrhizal networks
- Using natural fertilization methods
- Working with, rather than against, natural processes
“I feel really happy that those who drink my coffee are drinking a cup of life”
Byron Corrales
Climate Resilience Through Diversity
Great video produced by Viva La Finca - Virtual origin experience - Byron Corrales of Finca Los Pinos
Understanding the challenges of climate change, Byron has implemented robust adaptation strategies:
- Diverse tree species for enhanced shade coverage
- Strengthened soil biology
- Natural mineral enrichment
- Water conservation systems
The Unique Maracaturra Experience
This regenerative approach culminates in the cultivation of Maracaturra, a special variety found only at Finca los Pinos. This unique hybrid of Maragoype and Caturra (Bourbon) produces a truly exceptional coffee with:
- Juicy apricot aromatics
- Rich cashew nuttiness
- A deeply toned sweet cacao finish
- Remarkable sweetness unique to the large bean size
- Complex flavor elements impossible to achieve with conventional varieties
A Vision for the Future
"I want to transmit our family's art, our work of many years, discovering the flavors we've learned to bring forth from our mountains, expressed in this cup by way of respect for our environment," Byron shares. This respect for environment and commitment to regenerative practices creates coffee that is, in Byron's words, "the expression of life and the life energy of all the living beings who live in our community."
The Corrales Family from one of our origin trips.
Each cup of Byron's coffee embodies a powerful truth: regenerative agriculture can produce extraordinary coffee while healing the earth.
Our Byron's Blend is where ancient farming wisdom meets modern artistry. By masterfully combining washed and natural processed Maracaturra coffees, we create a harmonious cup that showcases the finest expressions of both methods. The result is more than a blend – it's a testament to coffee craftsmanship at its peak.
As Byron himself reminds us with characteristic wisdom: we are "celebrating with joy the responsibility of protecting the future of our generations." In every sip, you taste that promise.
Lavender Grace is the Sustainability Consultant for Thanksgiving Coffee Company.
Roots & Regeneration: Pioneering Regenerative Agriculture
read more
Beyond The Bean: Buzzing with Biodiversity
Your morning coffee can be more than just a boost—it can drive positive change. With our Smithsonian Bird Friendly® certification and our Bee Bold Alliance initiative, we're turning your daily coffee ritual into a force for good. Here's how we're making waves in the world of sustainable agriculture while serving up exceptional coffee.
Butterfly on coffee leaf, Soppexxcca Coop, Nicaragua
Cultivating Natural Ecosystems
Our coffee farming goes beyond conventional methods. We nurture complete ecosystems where coffee plants thrive alongside native flora and fauna. A single coffee tree can support over 100 insect species, enhancing biodiversity on our farms.
coffee beans ripening in the understory of the forest canopy
Our Environmental Commitments
Our commitment to biodiversity is reflected in two key initiatives:
AT ORIGIN
Smithsonian Bird Friendly ® Certification: This certification is literally the environmental gold standard in the sustainable coffee industry. As holders of the Smithsonian Bird Friendly® certification since 2015, we adhere to the most comprehensive, science-based standards in the coffee industry. This certification requires:
- Multiple layers of native tree canopy providing crucial wildlife habitat
- USDA Organic certification as a foundation, ensuring chemical-free farming
- Regular third-party inspections verifying our environmental impact
- Documented support of migratory birds and local biodiversity
Did you know? A single coffee tree on a certified farm can support over 100 distinct insect species!
AT HOME
The Bee Bold Alliance: This is our initiative to restore biodiversity and support local food security through pollinator protection. The vision is to create a regenerative ecology network in our community for comprehensive pollinator protection. Here are the key principles guiding our path forward:
- Protecting the Soil: We're working toward eliminating harmful pesticides, fungicides, and herbicides from our farming practices. This transition aims to create healthier environments for pollinators while maintaining productive coffee cultivation.
- Watershed Stewardship: Our growing commitment includes developing better water conservation practices, reducing fertilizer usage, and implementing responsible waste management systems.
- Fostering Pollinator Forage: We're exploring ways to integrate more flowering plants throughout our local farms, aiming to provide year-round nutrition that supports healthy pollinator populations.
- Honoring Indigenous Wisdom: We're beginning to build relationships with Native/First Nation peoples in our growing regions, seeking to learn from their traditional knowledge and collaborate on sustainable solutions for the future.
We're reaching out to neighboring farms and communities, inviting them to join us in protecting pollinators. This initiative is beginning to form, and we believe that together, we can create meaningful change.
The Impact of Your Coffee Choice
We believe in the power of collective action. Here are ways you can participate in this journey:
-
Choose coffee that aligns with your environmental values
-
Cultivate native wildflowers in your garden or community spaces
-
Consider natural pest management practices
-
Create undisturbed areas in your garden to provide natural habitats
-
Learn about pollinator-friendly plants suitable for your local ecosystem
Moving Forward Together
We're at an exciting point in our environmental journey, where your choice of coffee can help shape future agricultural practices. Our Bird Friendly® certified coffee demonstrates our established commitment to environmental stewardship, while our developing Bee Bold Coffee initiative shows where we're heading. By choosing these products, you're not just selecting quality coffee—you're supporting the evolution of sustainable and pollinator-friendly agriculture.
Join us on this journey toward biodiversity conservation through sustainable agriculture. Your support through choosing our Bird Friendly® certified coffee and Bee Bold Coffee helps create positive environmental change, one cup at a time.
Lavender Grace is the Sustainable Ecology Consultant for Thanksgiving Coffee Company