In Copán, Food Forest helps the Maya Chortí restore watersheds and combat severe droughts and storms, ensuring a sustainable future for their communities.
In the heart of Copán, the ancient cradle of Mayan civilisation, indigenous and non-indigenous communities are on the front lines of a climate crisis that threatens their very existence. Twenty villages report no water, rivers are reduced to trickles, and extreme water rationing forces tens of thousands in Copán Ruinas to abandon their homes as the basic conditions for life - literally - evaporate.
The Maya Chortí people, historically marginalised and living in remote villages, have a history of resilience. Twenty-five years ago, the Food Forest team partnered with these communities to work on land rights and establish nurseries and agroforestry projects. However, today's climate challenges are far more severe. Copán is now part of the Central American dry corridor, suffering from droughts, unpredictable rains, severe storms, and wildfires. Hurricanes Eta and Iota devastated the region, destroying infrastructure and crops, and threatening food security. The storms caused mature beans and maize to sprout prematurely, leading to significant losses and threatening food security.
In response, we propose a massive tree-planting program to restore watersheds around Copán, starting with the Maya Chortí communities of San Francisco and Carrizalón. The initiative aims to mitigate severe local impacts and expand quickly. Coordinating with half a dozen organisations, we are drawing up a comprehensive watershed plan to implement interventions on a large scale.
This project demonstrates the power of collective action and resilience in the face of climate catastrophe. The Maya Chortí are working to secure a sustainable future for their communities, proving that even in challenging times, there is potential and hope for renewal and growth.
Stay tuned as we unveil more details about this vital initiative and join us in supporting the Maya Chortí's fight for survival and sustainability.
By donating even small amounts to our charity, you can help rebuild their community and create a brighter future for generations to come.
