At Big River Coffee Company we believe in a quality cup of coffee as well as a healthy planet. Our commitment has led us to shade and organically grown coffees. Traditionally, all coffee was grown under a multi-stored canopy of native hardwoods, fruit, and nut trees. In the mid-1970’s a hybrid sun-tolerant coffee plant was developed that produced a higher yield of coffee, but required chemical fertilizers and pesticides.

Shade allows the coffee fruit to stay on the plant longer, maturing to the beat of nature’s time clock. This slower, natural ripening permits the absorption of nutrients from the rich forest loom and development of the coffees unique full-bodied flavor.
Shade trees provide nitrogen rich mulch, suppress weed growth, and prevent soil runoff. The trees produce food for the small farmers, who in turn sell the excess for additional income. The tree canopy also creates a sanctuary for bird and animal life. The large bird population is an excellent natural insect and pest control: the biodiversity insures a far lower risk of infestation and disease in the coffee plants. The result is a lessening and when organically grown, non-existent need for chemical fertilizers and pesticides.

Fortunately, many coffee growing countries still cultivate the majority of coffee under shade trees. Consumer demand for its continuance is the best guarantee of preserving the integrity of the land, the health of the farm families, and you the consumer.