The

Processing Exploration Program

The Del Fuego Project is launching the Processing Exploration Program, with the mission to seek out ways of improving cup quality through novel post harvest processing methods.

Who:

Alongside farmers interested in experimentation, Del Fuego is building a space (affectionately named the Exploration Station), to foster creativity and experimentation of novel coffee processing techniques in smallholder communities. We’re combining our ongoing research in Yepocapa, Guatemala, with the opportunity for roasters to gain early access to novel coffees that support both The Del Fuego Project’s education efforts (which span the supply chain), and long term small-holder knowledge gain. You’re invited to come along for the ride! 

Building on Progress

Building on DF's existing investigations into the effects of various field management decisions on coffee quality, this Program will identify processes at the wet-mill stage that increase the value of the region's coffee, provide educational opportunities on post harvest management (fermentation, depulping, washing, curing) for smallholder producers in the Yepocapa region as well as visitors from other parts of Guatemala, and give roasters and other interested parties early access to trials of a range of fun processing methods.

A Place to Learn

A processing station, called the 'Exploration Station' (Estación de Exploración in Spanish) is key to bringing these goals to life. Our goal of $8500 USD will directly support the construction of raised beds for curing small batch coffees, equipment for storing and transporting coffee, and compensation for processing station techs and attendants for the first two harvest seasons. This location will also allow us to receive visitors from every point in the value-chain to experiment and learn.

How to get involved

There are two main ways to join us and support these efforts,

1) By direct donation towards construction, development, and management of the Exploration Station.

2) Speak with us about how you can secure access to the experimental, educational, fun coffees!

Location:

14.50030, -90.99142

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Del Fuego Homepage Map

Explore some of our other research

Visit a wet mill

Wondering what the difference is between a wet mill and a dry mill? Take a step by step tour of a Guatemalan wet mill and see how coffee moves from cherry to parchment.

Jump into a Soil Pit

Peek below ground at a one of the soil pits used to collect samples for analyzing the nutrient content of the soils in Yepocapa.

Come to learn

Talk with us about upcoming educational opportunities and how you can get involved.