Coffee harvest in Costa Rica at risk

The coffee rust fungus, commonly known as Roya, which has already caused losses of more than $ 100 million in Nicaragua, may also affect coffee production in Costa Rica, warned this week the Ministry of agriculture and Livestock (MAG). MAG experts estimate that 30% of the local coffee crop may be lost due to the fungus.
The area most affected is Perez Zeledon, a region south of San José, where 7,000 acres are infected, followed by Coto Brus (south of Puntarenas) with 3,000 hectares, the Central Valley (500 acres), West Valley (118 acres ), Los Santos, southeast of the capital (50 hectares) and Turrialba, east of Carthage (40 hectares). The fungus Roya affects the leaves of the coffee plant until they dry completely. This fungus is spread by contact of one sheet to another. It does not affect the quality of the coffee but decreases plant productivity and may lead to higher prices.
According to MAG, the situation is so alarming that they are considering the possibility of declaring a state of emergency. Coffee producers are very concerned about the situation and will hold meetings with MAG officials this week to seek solutions.
Source: Revista Cafeicultura