Welcome to Bocavaldivia Foundation USA

Together, let’s create the biggest edible forest on earth.

The Bocavaldivia Foundation was born from sustainable gastronomy, where purpose is an ingredient as essential as the foods we share. Guided by indigenous wisdom, we design innovative agrifood systems that regenerate ecosystems, honor cultural memory, and strengthen community livelihoods. Our biodiverse edible-forest model shows how ecology and ancestral knowledge can restore soils, revive native species, and fuel circular bioeconomies built on resilience and adaptation. We work with indigenous communities to preserve culinary heritage, reinforce food sovereignty, and promote biocultural transformation as a path to conservation. Through permaculture, ocean stewardship, and environmental education, we embrace a perennial vision—one where the actions we take today will continue to nourish, uplift, and inspire communities for generations to come.

We invite you to join us, support our mission, and help protect the landscapes and cultures that feed the world.

MAke a donation
About the biodiverse edible forest
Download info document

Recognized for acting and inspiring change through food, for a decade

Rodrigo Pacheco and Dayra Reyes have lived In Puerto La Boca, in the Manabí province of Ecuador for almost a decade. They have transformed an ocean front plot into a delightful worldwide known destination of hospitality, gastronomy, biodiverse agriculture, ecosystem regeneration, social work, and sustainable lifestyle, becoming one of the most unique experiences for travelers and house owners.

Download the press kit

Companies that have contributed to BEF Bocavaldivia Foundation.

A growing team of visionaries

  • RODRIGO PACHECO

    Rodrigo Pacheco is an internationally recognized Ecuadorian chef and leading voice in regenerative gastronomy, known for redefining fine dining through biodiversity conservation and local food systems. As the founder of Bocavaldivia and the driving force behind the Bocavaldivia Foundation, he integrates ancestral knowledge, scientific research, and endemic ingredients to promote sustainable development along Ecuador’s coast. Through his culinary innovation, educational initiatives, and global collaborations, Rodrigo champions a food movement rooted in conservation, community empowerment, and the celebration of native ecosystems.

    JAVIER FERNANDEZ-SALVADOR Ph.D.

    Javier has over 25 years of experience in organic and regenerative agriculture, advancing sustainable production systems and supporting agricultural communities worldwide. He has served as Executive Director of the University of California Davis Olive Center since 2021, leading research, education, and industry collaboration around California olives. Previously, he was Assistant Professor of Practice with the Oregon State University Small Farms Program, focusing on organic olive and berry systems. Javier has also served on multiple nonprofit boards and U.S. crop commissions and remains an active researcher and consultant in organic and regenerative agriculture in Ecuador and internationally.

    CRISTINA OCAÑA GALLEGOS

    Cristina is a crop scientist and food systems professional whose career is rooted in advancing regenerative agriculture, climate resilience, and biodiversity conservation. A published researcher and ally to Indigenous agricultural initiatives, Cristina combines operational rigor with a deep commitment to environmental & cultural stewardship and community empowerment.

    ANDRES PACHECO

    A multidiscipline creative director with 20 years of experience in visual arts, branding, and design thinking. Working with Microsoft, University of California, as well as hospitality, art and non-profit organizations he has helped them achieve success with world-class, thoughtful and memorable design.

  • SORAYA HOSNI

    Soraya Hosni is an anthropologist, entrepreneur, sustainability expert, and Founder of Clever Harvest. Her journey from academia to executive roles has equipped her with a distinctive approach to tackling complex challenges, combining her expertise in social sciences with a fervent commitment to environmental conservation. Soraya has led organizations in both private and philanthropic sectors, prioritizing economic and environmental sustainability.

    MICHELLE ARÉVALO-CARPENTER

    Michelle Arevalo-Carpenter is a social entrepreneur, impact investor and human rights lawyer. Currently, she is the Executive Director leading content and strategy at SOCAP Global, the largest impact investment conference. Michelle is an expert at mobilizing thriving communities, bridging market tools + impact drive, and designing purpose-driven innovations for business growth. She belongs to a number of communities of practice, including the Skoll World Forum Fellows, the BMW Foundation Responsible Leaders Network, the Well-Being Project Ecosystem, the Global Good Fund Fellows, and the World Economic ForumGlobal Shapers Alumni Network.

    JEFF MILLER

    Jeff MIller, PhD is an Emeritus Professor at the Oregon State University department of Horticulture with his primary activities involving studies on natural enemies of exotic insect pests. He is also a naturalist devoted to the study of Lepidopterans, associating caterpillars with food plants, identification, and photography. His research projects have spanned all types of cropping systems, from cereals and vegetables to orchards, woodlands, and forests. Jeff’s passion for conservation has led him  to serve in several non-profit boards over the years, in Ecuador and abroad.

  • MOHITH VJ KUMAR
    MVJK Consulting

    Partnership advisor & consultant to numerous global rights holders around their environmental initiatives that have been making history while contributing towards the betterment of our planet. Helping brands advance partnerships through a true catalyst approach while raising awareness, capacity and action.

    DAYRA REYES

    Multi-faceted entrepreneur who has played a central role in shaping the Bocavaldivia principles as well as our business best practices. Dayra has extensive experience with large scale architecturalprojects as well as the challenges of maintaining sustainibility in business throughout the years.


  • Download the press kit

    Download info document

    Download Foundation info document

Get involved with Bocavaldivia Foundation

DONATE

We are seeking donations to secure critical land and begin restoration projects as soon as possible. Please consider donating on a recurring basis in our donations platform

VOLUNTEER

There are a number of volunteering opportunities at Bocavaldivia, on and off site. Please talk to us to see how you can help.

INVEST

Our private company has developed a number of investment opportunities that put the environment at the center. Inquire about investment options.