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March 01, 2025

From February 16–22, 2025, thirteen students from the University of Victoria participated in the first-ever Agroecology Belize Field School, an immersive, hands-on research experience exploring the intersections of biodiversity conservation, sustainable agriculture, and Indigenous ecological knowledge. Led by Dr. Sophia Carodenuto, an expert in cacao production and sustainable land use, students spent the week conducting fieldwork at the Belize Foundation for Research and Environmental Education (BFREE), a leading conservation organization dedicated to protecting Belize’s rich ecosystems.

Hands-On Research in Cacao Sustainability

Throughout the week, students examined the ecological factors that influence cacao production, including focus on key areas such as:

• Soil health
• Canopy cover of native tree species
• Bird foraging behavior

Despite having just four days in the field, students produced valuable insights that will contribute to ongoing conservation efforts in the region. Their findings underscored the importance of maintaining healthy, biodiverse ecosystems for sustainable cacao production—knowledge that supports both local farmers and global conservation goals.

BFREE: A Leader in Conservation and Environmental Education

Founded in 1995, the Belize Foundation for Research and Environmental Education (BFREE) is dedicated to the preservation of Belize’s tropical forests and wildlife through scientific research, education, and sustainable land management. Located within the Maya Mountains, BFREE protects over 1,100 acres of rainforest—a critical corridor for endangered species like the Baird’s tapir, jaguar, and harpy eagle. It is also home to one of the most endangered turtles in the world—the Hicatee turtle (Dermatemys mawii), a unique freshwater species which has been pushed to critically endangered status due to overhunting for its meat.

In addition to its rich biodiversity, BFREE is home to something truly special—a small grove of ancient cacao trees that could be directly tied to the origins of chocolate. Genetic testing of these trees’ beans, which are 100% pure Criollo heritage, suggests they may be the original chocolate trees. The beans are one of only 11 in the world to receive the prestigious "Heirloom Fine Flavour" designation from the Heirloom Cacao Preservation Fund, meaning they are of exceptional quality and historical significance. 

BFREE’s work integrates local knowledge, scientific research, and conservation initiatives, with a strong focus on engaging students and researchers from around the world. 

 

 

UVic Geography Field Schools

The Agroecology Belize Field School provided UVic students with an unparalleled opportunity to apply their academic knowledge in a real-world setting. Working alongside BFREE researchers and local conservationists, students gained first-hand experience in tropical fieldwork, interdisciplinary research, and community-driven conservation efforts.

UVic’s Department of Geography is proud to partner with organizations like BFREE to offer students experiential learning opportunities that connect them with pressing global issues such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and sustainable agriculture. Our field schools are one-of-a-kind opportunities, that take students into rainforests, on top of glaciers, and knee-deep in mudflats. 

Stay tuned for updates on future field schools and student research findings!