Maya Mountain Research Farm

Maya Mountain Research Farm (MMRF) is a leading regenerative agriculture and agroecology center based in the foothills of the Maya Mountains. Since 1988, we have worked to restore damaged landscapes through agroforestry, permaculture, and community-driven ecological design. As a registered NGO, our mission is rooted in the belief that healthy ecosystems create healthy communities. From land rehabilitation to renewable energy initiatives, we collaborate with rural families to build resilient food systems and strengthen the connection between people and the land. Our work has earned international recognition, including the Commonwealth Innovation for Sustainable Development Award for our pioneering efforts in agroforestry.

Today, MMRF continues to lead transformative change across the 54 nations of the Commonwealth by advancing regenerative development—an approach that honors local knowledge, restores ecosystems, and cultivates long-term ecological resilience. We support grassroots innovators, connect them with global expertise, and share successful models openly so they can inspire and guide communities worldwide. Whether through training, collaborative field projects, or our Regenerative Learning Laboratory, we work to foster a future where human prosperity is aligned with the health of the biosphere.

https://common.earth/maya-mountain-research-farm

The MMRF is, first and foremost, a demonstration farm. Over three decades, work on the farm has proven the regenerative benefits of applying permaculture principles in the South Belizean context, restoring land previously damaged by cattle and citrus farming. The farm also acts as a buffer zone for the nearby Columbia River Forest Reserve.

Building up and refining an agro-ecological system that conserves natural resources and provides ecosystem services has been the main focus of the farm throughout its history. With that system now stable, productive and sustainable, the farm has taken on additional projects, including maintaining a seed bank of indigenous plant species and running educational programs to share the knowledge and skills of permaculture.