Nicaraguan coffee farm embraces regenerative agriculture
A coffee farm in Nicaragua's Matagalpa region is pioneering regenerative agriculture to boost sustainability and soil health. La Cumplida, in partnership with the Rainforest Alliance, has implemented practices like cover cropping and agroforestry. These efforts aim to enhance biodiversity and resilience against climate challenges.
La Cumplida, a 200-hectare coffee farm located in the mountains of Matagalpa, Nicaragua, has shifted to regenerative agriculture methods under the guidance of the Rainforest Alliance. The farm, owned by the Pomares family since 1945, began integrating these practices in 2020 to address soil degradation and declining yields caused by conventional farming.
Regenerative techniques at La Cumplida include planting cover crops such as legumes to improve soil fertility, intercropping coffee with shade trees to promote biodiversity, and reducing synthetic fertilizer use by 50%. Farm manager Juan Pomares explained, 'We've seen soil organic matter increase by 2% in just two years, which means better water retention and healthier plants.' These changes have led to a 15% rise in coffee production while cutting costs on inputs.
The Rainforest Alliance certification, achieved in 2022, ensures compliance with standards for sustainable land management and worker welfare. According to the organization's report, farms like La Cumplida contribute to carbon sequestration, with potential to store up to 5 tons of CO2 per hectare annually through agroforestry. This aligns with broader efforts in Nicaragua, where coffee covers 150,000 hectares and supports 50,000 families, many facing climate vulnerabilities like erratic rainfall.
Challenges persist, including initial investment costs and the need for farmer training. However, Pomares noted, 'The long-term benefits for our community and the environment make it worthwhile.' The initiative serves as a model for other Nicaraguan producers, demonstrating how regenerative practices can balance productivity with ecological restoration in coffee regions worldwide.