Tag: Central America

  • Wednesday, August 10, 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm – From Genomics to Small Scale Agriculture: Tale of the Cherimoya, an Ancient New Crop

    Iñaki Hormaza, Arnold Arboretum Research Associate and Professor, Mayora Research Station of the Spanish Council for Scientific Research, will be discussing the cherimoya, a potentially sustainable fruit tree originating in the Andes, and his project which unites conservation, research, and production methods. In Central America, the cherimoya is called the Anona and in English speaking countries it is sometimes referred to as the “custard apple” or “sugar apple.” It should be a wonderful evening linking research to the lives of small scale farmers in Central and South America. The cherimoya holds potential as a sustainable crop for the countries of that region and beyond. A wealth of genetic diversity, excellent organoleptic qualities (sensory food appeal), and high nutrition content make this fruit a potential component of Andean food security. Iñaki Hormaza, a visiting plant biologist at the Arboretum, is coordinating a project to capitalize on the species’ potential and will talk about his work that unites conservation, research, and production methods. The program will take place Wednesday, August 10, beginning at 7 pm at Weld Hill, 1300 Centre Street, Boston. Registration is requested by alling Amie Evans at 617-384-5241, or emailing her at amieevans@fas.harvard.edu.  Photo by Axel Kratel.

  • Thursday, November 19, 6:00 – 9:00 pm – The Taste of Sustainable Food

    EcoLogic will hold its Annual Benefit on Thursday, November 19, from 6 – 9 pm, at the Boston Center for the Arts, Carol Dean Rehearsal Hall, 539 Tremont Street in Boston.  Come discover how EcoLogic is promoting environmentally-friendly agriculture and making a positive difference for rural farmers in Central America. Plus, experience the taste of New England as local chefs present delectable dishes made with sustainably-grown ingredients.  You will be joined by Frances Moore Lappé, author of Diet for a Small Planet, as well as one of EcoLogic’s field staff, who will speak about how our work with agroforestry is helping both the environment and poor farmers.  Admission: $50 ($40 for non-profit staff) www.ecologic.org/greenag.

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