Nicaragua SHG EP UCA SJRC - Ecotact

Unión de Cooperativas Agropecuarias San Juan del Rio Coco (UCA SJRC), a union of eight cooperatives representing over 370 small producers, operates across five communities in Northern Nicaragua’s San Juan del Rio Coco region. Founded in 1993, it helps farmers improve coffee quality, secure fair prices, and adopt sustainable practices. Named after the vital Rio Coco river, the region relies on its waters as a critical resource for agrarian livelihoods. Cherry is selectively handpicked. Since most farmers have small plots of land—about 2.8 hectares on average—most of the labor on the farm is completed by family members. About half of UCA SJRC members have their own wet mill. These members can also earn extra income by renting their mills to neighbors who do not own their own set up.

SHG (Strictly High Grown), accounts for beans that are cultivated at altitudes of 1,300 M and above. This results in a slower maturation process that enhances flavor complexity. 

EP (European Preparation), represents beans that are screen size 15+ and meticulously sorted and cleaned to ensure coffee is free from defects and impurities.