Roberto Peréz and His Milpa
Roberto Pérez, of El Zapotal, planting coffee seedlings in his organic nursery.
Roberto Peréz and his wife Rosa Iris Lopez chose to emigrate to the mountainous community of El Zapotal, for the fresh air and because they found a plot to farm.
Roberto quickly learned SVH farming techniques, most importantly, the Mayan way of planting corn, beans and other vegetables in a small plot, called a “milpa”. Crops planted in milpas can endure more drought, shade low-growing plants, and provide corn stocks for vine crops to grow on. At the end of the season, what’s left of the plants is turned under in order to improve the health of the soil. In his milpa and small fields Roberto grows 8 types of vegetables. Roberto can produce enough food to feed his family and share some with his neighbors.
Professor Maritza Linares, the former leader of El Zapotal, said “Roberto is dependable.” Soon after he arrived she invited him to a community meeting. Now Roberto is on the town council, the water management board, and the association of parents. He has participated in the construction of the community water project, the installation of solar panels for all families (paid for by the Chinda mayor) and the medical and dental brigades when they come.
Maritza Linares said, “more Robertos are needed in this community.”