What we have achieved
Forest Protection.
We have established two Conservation and Multiple Use Areas (ACUS); it is a category of private conservation area recognized by the provincial governments in Ecuador. The “La Cotona es Vida” and the “El Aullador” ACUS together measure 36 hectares of forest in good conservation condition. We are working with our partners, Save Paradise Foundation, to create a network of private conservation areas that now cover over 200 hectares of forested areas between the coastline and the Mache-Chindul National Reserve.
The designation entitles the area to additional legal protection and government assistance. Currently, we manage 100 hectares of highly biodiverse forests.
Agriculture & Development.
We practice small scale biodiversity friendly agriculture. Our model is centered on premium aromatic cacao integrated with a broad spectrum of perennial shade tolerant and sun-loving crops. Over eighty percent of the areas under our management are naturally forested.
Cacao Production.
We produce different varieties of shade tolerant premium cacao on our conservation farm. Our chocolatier Michaela transforms this premium cacao into exquisite chocolate products, such as bonbons, dark chocolates and truffles. A percentage of cacao and chocolate sales are reinvested into conservation.
Knowledge & Awareness.
We conduct two tours of our conservation areas with tourists and students. These tours raise awareness about the importance of biodiversity and the efforts to conserve it. We host volunteers interested in conservation and agrobiodiverse farming. The foundation provides facilities, support and guidance to these global volunteers.
Tourism & Community.
Our conservation efforts are closely linked with local tourism. Tours to our conservation areas diversify the activities offered in Mompiche and extend the average stay in the area. Our restaurant Madre Selva provides ‘farm to table’ menu options and a space to sell organically grown atypical farm products. We invest a portion of profits back into conservation projects.