We create access to organic agriculture products through the creation of gardens at local schools and on AEP property. We also conduct research to identify the most resilient and climate-appropriate crops that do not require the use of chemical pesticides and synthetic fertilizers. In addition to promoting organic agriculture, the goals of this program are to improve nutrition, economic return, and farm diversity.

This project is parallel to the U.S.-based umbrella initiative the Perfect Earth Project, which focuses on raising awareness of the dangers of lawn chemicals and promotes toxin-free lawn and landscape maintenance.

Organic Agriculture Resources

• GIS mapping data (coming soon) of crop production on the peninsula

• Research native and non-native plants and crops and their planting and harvesting needs

• Community events such as Guest Expert events on topics related to organic agriculture

Organiculture Program Accomplishments

• Planted, studied, and harvested over 40 species of organic vegetables in AEP garden

• Hosted Organic Volunteer Days with high school students

• Developed database of local and global tropical sustainable agriculture exports

• Toured organic farms in the province of Herrera; showing growing interest in organic farming

• Constructed seedling germination unit

• Started a school garden and incorporated it with curriculum in a Pedasí elementary school

• Held multiple workshops and community meetings on the benefits of organic farming

Current Work

• Creating a strategic plan for research, outreach, and education

• Beginning garden trials for resilient, organically produced crops

• Building infrastructure: greenhouse and hydroponic systems

• Testing permaculture practices and techniques

• Initiating education programs regarding toxin-free management