Dr. James Hayes-Bohanan

Dr. Hayes-Bohanon became a geographer after learning about the clearing of tropical rain forests in the Brazilian Amazon, which led him eventually to dissertation research in the western state of Rondônia. His preparation to do that work led him to a broader career in environmental geography and Latin American studies. Along the way he researched soil erosion in Ohio, volunteered for several environmental organizations, and worked as a consultant on environmental compliance throughout the United States. Soon after arriving at Bridgewater State University in 1997, his interests in the environment and Latin America led him to develop several courses about the geography of coffee -- courses that take place on campus, in local coffee-related businesses, and in the countries that produce coffee.