Biloya washing station is located at 1,720 meters above sea level in Kochere, in Yirgacheffe. Over 300 farmers deliver cherry grown in the surrounding area. The distinct wet and dry seasons create prime conditions for coffee processing, especially Natural lots like this one.

CULTIVATION

Farming methods in the region remain largely traditional. Yirgacheffe farmers typically intercrop their coffee plants with other food crops. This method is common among smallholders because it maximizes land use and provides food for their families.  

In addition to remaining traditionally intercropped, most farms are also organic-by-default. Farmers in Yirgacheffe typically use very few—if any—fertilizers or pesticides. Most farm work is done manually by the immediate family. 

To capitalize on the magnificent climate, that station provides training to help farmers produce better quality cherry. Training focuses on procedures for harvesting and transporting cherry.

HARVEST & POST-HARVEST

Farmers selectively handpick cherry and deliver it to the washing station station. At intake, employees hand sort incoming cherry to remove any under- or over-ripes or damaged cherry.

All accepted cherry is then laid to dry in thin layers on raised beds for approximately 21 days. The station has 136 drying beds. Each bed is marked with a code that makes it simple to keep track of traceability and processing status.