SHADE GROWN COFFEE

When you drink coffee, make it count!!

Left is Sun Grown; Right is Shade Grown

Traditionally, coffee has been grown in the shade. This method of production works well for coffee growers, and it also works well for migratory and resident birds and all the other animals that live among the shady groves. These bird refuge areas have become increasingly important in light of the diminishing rain forests. While shade grown coffee is desirable for a variety of reasons, the reason that stands out for us at Roaring Fork Audubon is that this method preserves habitat for all animals: the tropical resident birds, mammals, insects and migratory birds.

In recent years, coffee producers have learned how to increase their yields. They have learned that, by planting in full sun and applying chemical fertilizers and pesticides, yields will increase. As yields increase, the bird habitats decrease.

Even organic growers that do not employ shade grown practices must cut down native trees to make room for more plants.

Certifications can require different density levels for standing native trees per hectare. The most stringent is the Smithsonian Migratory Bird Center’s Bird Friendly logo. If you can’t find that, look for the frog on the Rainforest Alliance Certified logo. Both are on the package and need to be sought out. Please open our flyer below for a look at their logos.

We recommend an easy way to assure you support the best habitat protection. We purchase on-line from both birdsandbeanscoffee.com and deansbeans.com. Both are extremely reliable, roasted in the U.S. and quickly shipped to arrive usually within five days unless you want to sign up for auto delivery.

Don’t be timid. Ask  your favorite cafe and store to carry shade grown coffee!

Click here for a pdf flyer on shade grown coffee