Compost is a key element to maintaining soil fertility

In Rio Limpio, slash and burn agriculture makes soils highly susceptible to erosion. Fragile soils made soil management and conservation a priority for the founding members of CREAR. Terraces were constructed throughout the farm, especially in Area 1 and those areas dedicated to coffee production.

Recycling organic matter has been the key to maintaining soil fertility in Areas 1 and 2. This is done through organic composts and fermented fertilizers. Fermented fertilizers are made by mixing milk, molasses, and manure. These ingredients are mixed and fermented for a month, after which they can be applied to the crop.