COFFEE FOR THE BIRDS?

Did you know that Mexico loses a million acres of forest every year? Or that El Salvador has only 2% of its original forest remaining?

Approximately 150 migratory bird species travel down each winter to find solace in the canopy of coffee plantations in Central and South America. The only environment where this number is exceeded is the undisturbed tropical forest. Some bird species include warblers, redstarts, tanagers, thrushes, and orioles. Interestingly enough, many of these species stop off at the Arcata Marsh and other environs of Humboldt County as they travel The Pacific Flyway in Spring and Fall.

Tragically however, Latin America's megafarms are clearing the shaded terrain where coffee traditionally has been grownÑand chasing away 90% of the bird species. The fact is, traditional shaded farms host high levels of biodiversity, but the new ultra-productive, chemically intensive Òfull-sunÓ farms are disasters for wildlife. Unfortunately, coffee growers donÕt have much say in this matter.

The choice lies with the coffee buyers, retailers and consumers who will need to decide that they want a coffee that sustains people and the environment.

At Muddy Waters we have chosen to offer several conventional and organic coffees that are sustainable, shade grown, and conservation certified.

Enjoy.