Asociación Agro-Orgánica Guanacasteca
Three years ago gastric cancer took Don Miguel Gutiérrez’ wife. Since then, the farmer from Guanacaste chose to take care of his family and grow healthier products. That was the origin of living from organic products and the reason why he became one of the first 24 farmers certified by the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAG).
Gutiérrez says he has always dedicated his life to crops in the village of Curime in Nicoya; but eight years ago he started doing it organically, without any chemicals.
For those who think that organic products are more expensive, the farmer argues that, considering the health benefits, the cost doesn’t seem so high.
The other 24 farmers and the seven farms belonging to Asociación Agro-Orgánica Guanacasteca also made history in 2011 and now produce corn, beans, tubers, rice, vegetables, various species and medicinal plants.
However, going natural is not easy. According to Irene Burgués, red tape procedures are difficult because
they require at least three years of chemical-free production in the farm.”
With the certification and protection of MAG, the Association may incorporate other producers in the area who want to join the process.