The first part of the event featured three interactive areas and six interpreters.
The non-profit organization Conservation Opportunity (CO) and Finca Semila in Tiburones, Barceloneta plan to hold a sequel to the event in 2023 for the hearing-impaired community, as part of their efforts to include them in environmental care projects, such as agroforestry.
This past Saturday, July 16, 2022, CO hosted the event Pointing out Cacao held at Finca Semila, as part of the Latino Conservation Week initiative, created by the Hispanic Access Foundation. The event was attended by six interpreters from Sign Language Interpreters, Inc. who were dispersed among the different groups of participants.
“It is my first time being here and having the experience with cocoa, where I learned that it was a fruit, I didn't know that. They explained it to me clearly, I learned a lot and it was very interesting. Also, here in Barceloneta they have different plants, the farm and the nature here is very beautiful,” said Wilfredo Salgado, one of the deaf participants of the event.
Participants had the opportunity to work with three different areas:
- Field workThe participants had a hands-on experience on the farm, where they learned about planting techniques and cultivation of products used on the farm. Those who were interested were able to weed and plant in the designated areas.
- Scientific AreaThey learned about the cacao plant, its origin, methods of growth and production, benefits and confections. Additionally, general information about the microscope, its components and how it is used to prepare the participants to see objects was taught. Complementing the area, there was a small activity in which participants had the opportunity to make a small puzzle of the cacao plant.
- NurseryThe participants learned the techniques used on the farm for the germination and production of cocoa. They also participated in cocoa management.
“It rained, there was sun, we had a place to camp, this nursery that has different plants like cocoa and I learned how they grow. I learned how to make the cut to plant it in the ground and all the explanation. I enjoyed a lot and it was a very nice experience,” added Salgado.
After the activities, participants were treated to a complimentary lunch and a tasting of Puerto Rican chocolate. Following the community's participation in this event, Conservation Opportunity and Finca Semila hope to develop other similar projects for future occasions.