This talk will explore how regenerative agroforestry can protect cacao genetics while restoring degraded land and strengthening rural communities in Guatemala. Drawing from the experience of Kampura and Finca Nahuatancillo, I will share how a former cattle pasture has been transformed into a biodiverse, productive system that supports high-quality cacao alongside other tree crops. The presentation will connect ecological practices—such as canopy management, soil regeneration, and biodiversity—to outcomes that matter for chocolate makers, including flavor development, resilience, and long-term supply stability.
Beyond the farm itself, this talk will examine how agricultural systems shape human outcomes. I will discuss how Kampura approaches labor, community engagement, and long-term investment in local infrastructure, and why these factors are inseparable from the quality of the cacao produced. Attendees will gain a grounded understanding of how agroforestry can function as both a production model and a framework for stewardship—offering practical insight into sourcing, sustainability, and the future of cacao.