SPRAYTEC MAGAZINE 07 ING

EDITORIAL

The Premise

When it comes to premises, being a family is what matters. Beyond all the work-related issues, we need to feel part of a group where everyone contributes their own part, provides input, generates ideas, plans, and focuses on both personal and professional growth. As Dr. Reginaldo states, “Here, people will be able to leave a legacy, a story built,” and this is possible thanks to the synergy created among those who are part of this Spraytec Global world.

I am truly grateful to have so many people who focus on growing our name, breaking down barriers, adding skills, and enhancing the value of our technology, which is now available in so many countries around the world!

José Cardozo, a pioneer in the use of Spraytec in Brazil, shares with us how he started with the company, his growth as an entrepreneur, and his dreams as a large-scale producer in Mato Grosso. He has been linked with Spraytec for 25 years and states that over the last 25 years, he has built his family—his three children, wife, mother, siblings... “since they were born, they have been hearing and talking about Spraytec; there is a family bond with Spraytec,” he concludes. Regarding production in Mato Grosso—a Brazilian state that is currently the largest national agricultural producer—”it is projected to reach 15 million hectares. It’s crazy,” he says.

The identikit is to Juan Espinoza, an Agronomic Engineer, currently the Commercial Manager for Entre Ríos/Santa Fe Norte (in Argentina) and Central America and the Caribbean. In this quick Q&A, he details aspects of his daily life, tastes, and dreams. What is something everyone should have? Love and passion, he says.

Fulltec Impulse contains the highest load of chelated micronutrients on the market. For three consecutive years, it has achieved significant results compared to its competitors. Here are more details about this product.

Nuala Szler covers the topic of truffles. She tells us about their cultivation, the interesting way they are harvested, their culinary uses, and all the aspects to consider when consuming them.

Chihuahua, that beautiful city in Mexico, is the focus of Territorial Roots. We have a headquarters there, and here we will learn more details about this great city.

I hope it exceeds expectations! Until the next edition!

Diego Parodi Presidente de Spraytec

02

Editorial

The Premise

Por: Diego Parodi

04

Identikit

Juan Espinoza Bruno

06

Research

Significant results

08

Interview with José Cardozo

“There is a Family Bond with Spraytec”

Por: Juan Carlos Grasa

General production: Horizonte A ediciones

12

Report

Truffles, the Diamonds of Gastronomy

Por: Nuala Szler

16

Territorial Roots

Chihuahua

20

Interview with Reginaldo Santana

“At Spraytec, there is no procedural manual; it is written by the people— that’s the idea”

Por: Juan Carlos Grasa

24

Snapshots

JUAN ESPINOZA

IDENTIKIT

1. Profession and position in the company?

Agricultural Engineer, currently Commercial Manager for Entre Ríos and Santa Fe Norte (in Argentina), Central America and the Caribbean.

2. Would you prefer to return to the past, pause the present, or travel to the future?

All at once, in the right measure and with the order that my family, Spraytec, and friends provide me.

3. How do you imagine your life would be in 10 years?

Better than today, combining family, work, and enjoyment while conquering both personal and team challenges.

4. The best reason to smile?

Clarita, León, and Andrea.

5. A life role model?

Several.

6. If you were an animal, what would you be?

I would probably be a dog.

7. An Argentine pride? Favaloro.

8. Which technological advance surprised you the most?

Selective application combined with Spraytec products.

9. If you could travel in time, who would you like to meet?

My grandparents whom I never got to meet.

10. Something everyone should have?

Love and passion.

11. Of the places you know, which one would you return to?

Maciel.

12. Who is Juan Espinoza?

A simple and sensitive guy. He likes mate, barbecue, and wine. Always with the family.

13. If you had to organize an expedition to a deserted island with Spraytec colleagues,

- Who would you take knowing that you would face extreme situations?

Leonel, Nelson, and Catriel. Without a doubt.

- To manage the supplies? César.

- To carry the supplies?

All of us, to make it lighter.

- To cook?

Eduardo.

- For fun times?

Emilio.

- To bring calm in difficult times?

Mariano or Germán. They both seem like very calm and practical guys to me.

- To coordinate the group? Pablo.

- To ensure a good return?

With this selection, the return is assured.

ESPINOZA BRUNO

Identikit

SIGNIFICANT

Fulltec Impulse contains the highest load of chelated micronutrients in the market. It’s a mix of four products that provides a concentrated mix of plant nutrients that not only suooirt robust plant growth, but also safeguards plant against significants stress. Beck’s Seed PFR

is an independent non-biased research that test products from different companies. For three years in a row, Fulltec Impulse had significant results against its competirors. Working against two competitors, Fulltec Impulse Soy had a $18.18 return on investment per acre. Fulltec Impulse Corn had

a $10.18 return on investment per acre, which was the highest among all other products tested.

In another study from Ag Product Research in Indiana and Ohio, the product represented a 3-year average of 4.50 bushels per acre, highest between 9 different products.

RESULTS

INTERVIEW

“There is a family union with Spraytec”

Juan Carlos Grasa Director of HorizonteA

I want to talk to you about your connection with Spraytec beyond the professional level. We know about the human relationship between you and the company. How important is it to maintain this connection on a personal and professional level?

The human and cooperative relationship in which I consider Spraytec as my family was established 25 years ago, with Diego Parodi as the reference and head of Spraytec. In 1999, when Spraytec needed to expand in Brazil, Diego came to talk to me, and I embraced the cause. I was already an agronomist, managing companies in Mato Grosso, and selling other products, when I went on to manage Diego’s companies and work as a partner. This long-standing partnership

At SMART 2024 in Maringá, Brazil, we interviewed José Cardozo, a pioneer in the use of Spraytec in Brazil. He tells us how his relationship with the company began, how he grew alongside Parodi, and what he dreams of as a large-scale producer in Mato Grosso. A person with a forward-looking perspective.

has now been growing for 25 years, marked by unity and a strong bond. We both grew together, and it became more of a human partnership than just a business one.

How do you consider business within personal growth?

Business is associated with our family partnership, our human connection, our friendship, our family; it follows us, walking alongside us. During all this time, 25 years, I built my family—my three children, my wife, my mother, my

siblings—all of whom, since they were born, hear and talk about Spraytec. There is a family bond with Spraytec. And the business, as I said, has been consolidating more and more. I consider that I became an agribusiness entrepreneur in 2015.

How did you start in agriculture?

I founded the company AgroSim, Agricultural Inputs, and promised Diego this partnership to bring Spraytec along with my business. Today, I am an agricultural producer, and

“We must feed the world”

Spraytec is with me. I am a distributor for Spraytec, a representative of the firm, consolidating both personal and professional relationships. As a producer, I have always carried out my work seriously, technically, professionally, with soil analysis, foliar analysis, and applications in collaboration with the companies I partner with, which are Bayer and Syngenta.

How do you evaluate the growth of agriculture in Brazil and throughout South America?

The market, 25 years ago, was just a business. Today, the technology and adoption levels that producers are embracing to seek productivity, application technologies, etc., have changed the business. The result is the most important thing; it’s what we have to present to the producer. Solid partnerships are built on productivity and the results that the producer achieves. It is increasingly possible to achieve the results the producer wants, those of productivity, if we have quality products and technology.

Do you think the agricultural market has undergone many changes?

The market has grown a lot. If you take Mato Grosso, years ago it used to plant 3, 4, 5 million hectares. Today, Mato Grosso is planting 12 million hectares in 2024, and

“Spraytec is prepared for the future, ready to serve our customers with productivity”

“We are going to continue growing, and our goal is to see agriculture growing and feeding the world.”

by 2030, the projection for Mato Grosso—a Brazilian state that is currently the largest national agricultural producer—is to reach 15 million hectares. It’s crazy. This is like a country within another country. And to reach that, we will need technological products, which is where Spraytec is prepared for the future, ready to meet our clients’ productivity needs.

And is the country prepared for 15 million hectares in Mato Grosso?

Structurally, we don’t have the storage capacity. We can produce the flow of generated products, but we are not yet prepared for that level of storage. The global population growth will demand food, and Brazil is ready to produce today, but it also needs improvements to be able to feed the world.

Do you think that is the geopolitical focus regarding agriculture?

Mato Grosso is preparing for the future, as are the other states. 2023/24 are difficult years or rather, different years. Agriculture is not going to stop; despite some problems we’ve had, we won’t stop growing. We will continue to grow, and our goal is to see agriculture growing and feeding the world.

Thank you, José!

Truffles the Diamonds of Gastronomy

By: Lic. Nuala Szler

Truffles are fungi belonging to the genus Tuber that naturally grow in association with the roots of various host trees, notably the holm oak and the oak. These fungi develop beneath the soil surface, usually at depths of about ten to fifteen centimeters, and reach between three and twelve centimeters in diameter. There are thirteen types of truffles that can be used for gastronomic purposes. However, the type that has gained prominence in our country is the black Perigord truffle, known and renowned as the “black diamond” of gastronomy. This species takes between five and seven years to mature and can maintain a productive life of over three decades when growing alongside the roots of holm oaks or European oaks. It is also considered one of the finest and most prestigious edible fungi internationally, holding a distinguished place among gourmet products worldwide. It is an icon in the culinary world for being scarce and offering

an intense and incomparable flavor and aroma, which combine the properties of the soil, vegetation, water, and climate of its habitat.

In general, the truffle is a fungus very resistant to specific conditions of humidity and extreme temperatures, but it is vulnerable during its growth cycle. Therefore, excess or lack of water could be fatal. In Latin America, the area of the central valley and the pre-mountain range between Santiago and Temuco in Chile offers some microclimates with these characteristics. This is why, along with Australia, they are the two countries currently leading global truffle production. In Europe, this prized fungus can be found in the forests of southern Italy and France, but Spain is considered the main producer of truffles in the Old World on a global level.

In Argentina

Particularly, in our country, truffle production has grown significantly over the last decade. It is a new and emerging alternative that is beginning

to establish itself strongly. Argentina has become one of the few producers and exporters of the black Perigord truffle, a crop that has garnered increasing economic interest due to its potential to sell for over 1,500 euros per kilo on the international market, and even up to 3,000 euros at auctions. Currently, there are fifteen enterprises dedicated to this business, with two main projects: Trufas Del Nuevo Mundo, with 50 hectares under cultivation, and Trufas La Esperanza, with fifteen hectares, along with other smaller-scale producers.

Guillermo Merediz, Secretary of Small and Medium Enterprises and Entrepreneurs of the Nation, emphasized that “Argentina has an agricultural export matrix, but the production of value-added foods like these is an opportunity to showcase the country’s capabilities. Together with INTI, we have a strategic role in seeking innovation and providing financial support for productive investment.” He also highlighted that the cultivation of black truffles “is a

concrete example of the capacity of companies and entrepreneurs in the pursuit of continuous innovation.”

Ancient Product

Now, although, as we mentioned, truffle production in Argentina is relatively recent, the black truffle is an ancient product. Egyptians, Romans, and Greeks of antiquity already consumed and appreciated them not only for their gastronomic uses but also for their medicinal properties, thanks to their trace elements, mineral salts, and protein content. Cicero himself called them “daughters of the gods” and “miracles of nature.” Greeks and Romans even attributed an aphrodisiac value to them. This is why, in addition to being associated with potions, magic, and alchemy, truffles were persecuted and banned during the Middle Ages.

In the 18th century, they regained prominence as a symbol of wealth and good taste, taking a preferred place at the tables of the most noble and powerful. If we go back many years to their origin, we see that truffles only grew wild and needed animals to eat them to disperse their spores for reproduction. Therefore, to attract animals, they needed and still need to emit a strong aroma that penetrates the surface and draws them in.

Production

Today, truffle production requires a process full of care and specific procedures that ensure the quality of the truffle obtained. Firstly, as we have mentioned, its development is subterranean. The black truffle (Tuber melanosporum) forms a symbiotic association with certain

species of host trees, mainly holm oaks, European oaks, and hazelnut trees. Thus, the flavor and aroma of the truffle vary according to the habitat, climate, and the amount of rainfall during its development, but especially according to the tree to which it was attached.

Secondly, it requires a lot of patience, as after planting the oaks and holm oaks inoculated with the fungus, it is necessary to wait four years for the production to begin. Afterward, that same production will increase over time, reaching its peak ten to twelve years after the project starts. However, from the beginning of production, the truffle harvest is annual and sustained for 30 to 40 years or more.

Thirdly, it is crucial to maintain an appropriate pH in the soil, which favors the development of the fungus mycelium and future truffle production. Therefore, after the initial lime applications in the plantation, the pH must be monitored each year to evaluate its decrease over time due to lime leaching in the soil. The decrease in pH over time will vary according to the soil’s physicochemical characteristics and the location’s rainfall, so maintenance

liming will depend on how the specific site’s pH decreases.

In addition to pH, soil texture and organic matter are important factors to consider. Ideal soils for these fungi should have adequate levels of organic matter, high levels of available calcium and magnesium for the plant, and good natural drainage. The exact choice of sites for establishing plantations requires rigorous analysis of the soil’s chemical and physical characteristics (edaphology), slope, exposure, temperatures, rainfall, surrounding vegetation, and crop history. The site selection must closely match the ecological conditions required by the truffle, which will greatly ensure the future success of the production.

In Argentina, the main task for farmers is liming the soils, as the pH of soils in most potential areas of Argentina is neutral. Therefore, achieving the appropriate pH and calcium levels in the soil will require applications of agricultural lime (calcium carbonate). The ideal pH range for a truffle plantation soil should be between 7.6 and 8.3, with an optimal pH of 7.9. If the natural soil pH is lower, it should be corrected by applying calcium carbonate.

Regarding irrigation, the use of technical irrigation is an ef-

fective tool to improve truffle production, as it prevents prolonged droughts. In the early years of the plantation, irrigation should strictly support the establishment and growth of the plants. Additionally, special care must be taken with excess moisture in the soil, which can be detrimental to the fungus’s development due to the intrusion of competing fungi in the plantation. After the third or fourth year of the plantation, irrigation should focus on optimizing truffle production, and the amount of water applied must be more strictly controlled. As we can see, from the establishment of the plantation, soil temperature and moisture must be carefully managed to promote production.

On the other hand, the incidence of soil temperature is controlled through proper tree spacing called “mulching,” along with timely pruning and thinning. For the black truffle, trees should be pruned in an inverted cone shape to regulate soil sunlight exposure. Planting spacing should be wide, depending on the species, soil and climate conditions, and cultivation techniques used. These spacings will necessarily depend on the type of host tree used, as well as the desired outcomes. In our country, an optimal planting density of 400 trees per hectare is recommended, where the main management tasks in the plantation are weed control, pruning, soil tilling, and irrigation application. It is important to note that if weed control is desired through herbicide application, special care must be taken with the product used, as some formulations can have detrimental effects on the fungus.

The Treasure Hunt

Harvesting truffles is akin to a treasure hunt. It is done

with trained dogs that precisely indicate the spot where the truffle is located, which can grow up to half a meter underground. In Argentina, the harvest period begins in June and ends in September. Once harvested, truffles have a shelf life of about 10 days, so proper storage is crucial to preserve and maintain their properties. The average weight is 45 grams, but truffles can range from small 2-gram ones to others weighing 250 grams. At home, they can be kept in the refrigerator for no more than ten days and always covered with absorbent paper. Since truffles need to be used and consumed quickly and fresh, their preservation is a highly delicate process. They cannot be exposed to open air because they start releasing aromas as soon as they are picked and are at risk of oxidation. Nor can they be stored hermetically, as they need to breathe. For commercial purposes, they are packaged with partial vacuum and absorbent paper in refrigerated boxes.

Mariana Sánchez, coordinator of food development projects at INTI, pointed out that since “the fungus reaches its highest value when fresh, various techniques were tested until we chose freeze-drying, cold dehydration, as the best alternative for international trade, as it allows it to remain stable at room temperature and preserves its attributes.”

However, while a brief summary of recommendations has been presented, the cultivation and harvesting techniques to be applied will necessarily depend on the specific site and local microclimatic conditions.

Art in the Kitchen

Socially and culturally, truffles have been called the

“diamonds of gastronomy.” Cooking with them requires absolute delicacy, and they should not be included in any dish that might mask their aroma and flavor, such as those containing garlic and vinegar. They are always added at the last moment since they barely need to be cooked. The black truffle is considered a delicacy capable of transforming a simple dish into an exquisite one that even the most discerning guest cannot resist. Their culinary uses are endless: from complex dishes to the simplicity of scrambled eggs. In fact, most chefs choose simple recipes to avoid overshadowing the intense yet delicate flavor of the truffle. In most cases, chefs showcase the truffle to the diner, grating or slicing it thinly directly onto the dish at the moment of serving.

Truffles are perfect for flavoring sausages and meats. These dishes, along with their precious aroma, provide vitamins, iron, and minerals such as potassium, phosphorus, calcium, and sulfur, thanks to the truffle. Moreover, they stand out for their nutritional content, similar to that of mushrooms. As mentioned, truffles are rich in minerals and vitamins, with very low levels of carbohydrates and fats. They also provide fiber and vegetable proteins, with only about 30 calories per 100 grams. But their qualities don’t end there. Truffles also offer health benefits: they improve the functioning of muscular and nervous tissues, promote circulation, and combat anemia, making them the perfect companion for vegetarians and vegans. Wine enthusiasts should note that it is important to pair truffles with the right wine. The truffle’s flavor is very persistent and requires wines with great staying power in the mouth: if choosing white wine, select one that is bar-

rel-fermented. For red wine, “reserva” and “gran reserva” pair well with this exclusive and exquisite fungus.

In Argentina, thanks to the growth experienced in the last decade, truffles are not only present in the most gourmet restaurants but can also be found in the market for home use. As mentioned, fresh truffles are one of the greatest pleasures. To enjoy them this way, follow these steps to keep them fresh for up to ten days: first, carefully wrap the fresh truffle in absorbent paper; second, place it in a dry container such as a Tupperware or glass jar; third, keep the container in the coldest areas of the refrigerator, ideally at 2°C, or between 4°C and 8°C. Finally, open the container every two days to let the truffle breathe and change the absorbent paper if it is damp. This way, the truffle will stay fresh and dry for optimal consumption.

Unique Diamonds

We must mention before concluding that each of these diamonds is a true treasure; no truffle has exactly the same flavor as another. As mentioned, everything depends on the type of tree it grew on, the habitat, the climate, and the amount of rainfall. These are the factors that influence its flavor and make it so unique and special.

TERRITORIAL ROOTS

CHIHUAHUA

The city of Chihuahua, the capital of the eponymous state in Mexico, is a city rich in history, culture, and economic development. In the heart of northern Mexico, this city stands out not only for its historical and political significance but also for its tourist offerings and robust agronomic activity. This article delves deeply into these aspects to provide a comprehensive view of what makes Chihuahua a special place.

Geography

Chihuahua is located in a geographically diverse region, with an average altitude of 1,460 meters above sea level. The city is nestled in the Chihuahua Valley, surrounded by the Sierra Madre Occidental to the west and an expanse of plateaus and plains to the east. This varied landscape offers a mix of semi-arid and temperate climates, with hot summers and cold winters.

The Chuviscar River runs through the city, adding a natural vitality to the urban environment. Additionally, the city’s proximity to important natural resources, such as the Janos Biosphere Reserve and the Cumbres de Majalca National Park, highlights the region’s ecological richness.

History

The history of Chihuahua is a testament to its crucial role in the development of

Mexico. Founded on October 12, 1709, by Antonio Deza y Ulloa, the city originally served as a strategic defense point against incursions by native tribes. During the Mexican War of Independence, Chihuahua was an important stronghold for the insurgent forces. In 1811, Father Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla, the leader of the independence movement, was captured and executed in Chihuahua, marking a significant historical milestone.

During the Mexican Revolution, the city of Chihuahua became a central hub of operations. It served as the headquarters for Pancho Villa, one of the most iconic leaders. His house, now a museum, offers a window into the city’s revolutionary past.

Tourism

Chihuahua boasts a diverse range of tourist attractions that capture both the historical richness and natural

beauty of the region.

• Chihuahua Cathedral: This impressive baroque structure, built between 1725 and 1792, is a symbol of the city’s colonial heritage.

• Museum Casa de Villa: A must-visit for those interested in the Mexican Revolution. The museum houses artifacts and documents from Pancho Villa’s life.

• Museum of the Mexican Revolution: Located in the former Terrazas family home, this museum offers a detailed look at the key events and figures of the revolution.

• Quinta Gameros: An Art Nouveau mansion built in the early 20th century and considered one of the city’s most important architectural monuments; currently owned by the Autonomous University of Chihuahua, it houses the Quinta Gameros University Cultural Center.

• Copper Canyon: Although technically located outside the city, these impressive geological formations are accessible from Chihuahua. The canyons offer opportunities for hiking, cycling, and birdwatching.

• Cumbres de Majalca National Park: An ideal destination for nature lovers,

with walking trails, camping areas, and diverse wildlife.

• International Festival of Chihuahua: An annual event that celebrates local culture with music, dance, and theater performances.

• Santa Rita Fair: A traditional fair that includes agricultural exhibitions, amusement rides, and concerts.

Theories about the Origin of the Chihuahua Dog

In the late 19th century, American tourists began discovering these small dogs in the state of Chihuahua. Fascinated by their size and appearance, they started taking them back to the United States, where they quickly gained popularity. The breed was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1904.

Since then, Chihuahuas have gained enormous popularity not only in the United States but around the world. They are known for their small size, large eyes, and prominent ears, as well as their lively and sometimes temperamental personality. They have appeared in numerous movies, TV shows, and advertising campaigns, increasing their global fame.

One of the most accepted theories is that the Chihuahua descends from a pre-Columbian breed known as the

Techichi. These small dogs were bred by Mesoamerican civilizations, such as the Toltecs and the Aztecs. It is believed that the Techichis had spiritual significance and were used in religious rituals.

Another theory suggests that the small dogs brought by European colonizers were crossbred with the local Techichis, resulting in the breed we know today as the Chihuahua. This mix of influences may have contributed to the diversity in size and appearance of modern Chihuahuas.

Agricultural Activity

The city of Chihuahua is recognized not only for its historical and cultural richness but also for its prominent agricultural activity. In a region characterized by a semi-arid climate, agriculture has managed to adapt and thrive, becoming a vital economic engine for the city and the state.

Agriculture is one of the most important sectors for the economy of Chihuahua. With vast expanses of fertile land and a climate suitable for a variety of crops, the region has developed a diversified and high-quality agricultural production. This sector not only generates employment for thousands of people but also serves as a significant source of income through the export of agricultural

products.

Main Crops

Chihuahua is known for a variety of crops that adapt well to its climatic and soil conditions. Among the most prominent are:

Corn

Corn is one of the most important crops in Chihuahua, used both for human consumption and animal feed. Corn production is fundamental to the local agricultural economy and benefits from advanced irrigation and fertilization techniques.

Beans

Beans are another key crop, especially in the more arid areas. Chihuahua produces several varieties of beans that are appreciated both nationally and internationally.

Wheat

Wheat is a winter crop that adapts well to Chihuahua’s climatic conditions. Wheat production not only meets local demand but also significantly contributes to the state’s agricultural exports.

Cotton

Cotton cultivation is relevant in the warmer areas of the city. This product is crucial for the textile industry and

Chihuahua is known for a variety of crops that adapt well to its climatic and soil conditions

generates significant income through export.

Technological Innovations in Agriculture

The modernization and adoption of advanced technologies have been crucial to the success of agriculture. These innovations have allowed farmers to improve efficiency, increase productivity, and address climatic challenges.

Irrigation Systems

The use of drip and sprinkler irrigation systems has revolutionized agriculture in Chihuahua. These methods enable more efficient use of water, a vital resource in a semi-arid region. Advanced irrigation technology has reduced water waste and allowed farmers to cultivate previously non-productive areas.

Biotechnology

Biotechnology plays a fundamental role in crop improvement in Chihuahua. The introduction of genetically modified seeds resistant to pests and diseases has increased yields and reduced dependence on chemical pesticides.

Precision Agriculture

Precision agriculture uses technologies such as GPS, drones, and sensors to monitor and manage crops more efficiently. These tools allow producers to make informed decisions about the use of fertilizers, irrigation, and pest control, thereby optimizing resources and improving production.

Economic Impact

Agriculture in Chihuahua not only supplies the local market but also plays a crucial role in the export economy. Agricultural products are exported to international markets, including the United States, Europe, and Asia, generating foreign exchange and strengthening the local economy.

Job Creation

The agricultural sector is an important source of employment. From farmworkers to professionals in research and development, agriculture offers a wide range of job opportunities. This sector also supports related industries such as transportation, manufacturing, and services.

Rural Development

Agriculture has been a driver of rural development. Investment in agricultural infrastructure, such as irrigation systems and storage facilities, has improved the quality of life in rural areas. Additionally, training programs and technical support have enabled farmers to improve their practices and increase productivity.

Sustainable Water Management

Sustainable water management is crucial for the future of agriculture in Chihuahua. Initiatives for water conservation and reuse, as well as the implementation of more efficient irrigation technologies, are essential to ensure long-term sustainability.

Crop Diversification

Crop diversification is another important strategy to mitigate risks and increase resilience to adverse climatic conditions. The introduction of alternative and high-value crops can offer new economic opportunities for farmers.

Conclusion

Chihuahua is a city that uniquely combines its rich history, diverse geography, tourist attractions, and a strong agricultural foundation. From its colonial roots to its role in the Mexican Revolution and its current economic significance, Chihuahua offers a deep and multifaceted experience for residents and visitors alike. The city continues to evolve, integrating its historical heritage with modern progress to forge a promising future.

“At Spraytec, there is no procedural manual; it is written by the people—that’s the idea”

Juan Carlos Grasa Director of HorizonteA

Good afternoon, Reginaldo. Please tell us about your specific role within the structure of Spraytec at the moment.

My background is in law, and I am a lawyer with additional training in accounting. Therefore, I oversee all aspects involving legal issues related to operations, not only in Brazil but also in other countries.

Additionally, I am heavily involved in planning, discussing, and advising on new strategies or new directions for the company.

So, you are almost like an advisor and a management actor with a legal profile.

Today, one of my roles and major concerns is to ensure the regularity of operations in Brazil and other parts of the world, focusing particularly on economic and financial management, and

Dr. Reginaldo Santana, as he is called at Spraytec, has been with the company for 20 years. He is a cultured man with refined tastes and a friendly demeanor, he spoke with our magazine during SMART 2024 in the city of Maringá, Brazil.

providing my opinion on key decisions to be made.

20 years managing the growth of Spraytec…

I have been with the company for about 20 years, initially doing exclusively legal work. Over time, as my involvement grew, I began to take on a more consultative role in various areas. Although my background is in law, I also have training in accounting, economics, and finance, so I navigate these areas with relative ease.

I really enjoy negotiating actions, creating conviction, harmonizing conflicting situations, and inspiring people to be interested in prosperity and the development of the company.

You have been with Spraytec since the beginning. How do you see the company’s evo-

lution and your own as a professional?

Today, I see Spraytec as an extension of my life, of my professional fulfillment. Spraytec is an enchanting company, and this enchantment comes, above all, from the personality that exists within the company. These 20 years of history have been 20 years of growth, 20 years of development. This continuous and constant development has given me the certainty that I am with a group of people who are passionate about what they do and in a company that has much to offer the market and society.

One of the strong concepts we carry with us is the generation of prosperity. This prosperity is for all those who are involved in our dream. For all those who have chosen to dream the same dream as us and have committed to turning that dream into reality.

So, what do you think was the major goal, the motivator of this growth?

It was never about profit for the sake of profit. It was about profit for the development of a favorable and prosperous environment in our territory. When we decided to venture out into the world, find new markets, and meet those producers, it was

also a way to generate prosperity in other environments. What delights and makes us happiest is when we see our team members evolving and prospering alongside us. We carry, in addition to this great desire, a great responsibility.

At the plant in Brazil, we have about 250 to 270 employees. These are 270 families that live from this dream. It is a social responsibility, a commitment to bring to everyone involved in this chain—from our employees to the producer who buys the product— this prosperity, this human and social evolution.

Why did you decide to expand to other countries, and how do you see the future of Spraytec in the next 10 years?

I see Spraytec as a company with no ceiling. The limit to Spraytec’s development will be the limit of our capacity to bring our technologies to the entire agricultural sector. I am fully convinced that we have extremely innovative, high-quality products that facilitate and make the lives of producers much more prosperous. Therefore, our great challenge is to continue finding people who join this desire, who want to dream this same dream with us.

When we decided to venture into new countries, at first it seemed somewhat utopian because we were in environments like Argentina or Brazil, with gigantic agricultural potential and much to explore. So why go to Australia, Ukraine, Russia, or the United States? Because for us,

“You can be like a bird that lives in a box. In that box, you will find security. The cat won’t eat you, you won’t get rained on, and you’ll always have food provided by your caretaker, but you will live trapped inside that box, with security but few emotions. What I am offering you is not a box; I am offering you a free life. You will get rained on, you will face difficulties in finding your food, and you will risk survival against predatory animals, but you will be able to see the horizon, feel the breeze on your face, and see the beauty of freedom. That beauty is enticing, it has a price, but it brings fulfillment. These are different lifestyles.”

borders are just imaginary lines. There is no physical barrier that prevents us from crossing a border.

With that mindset, could it be said that you have the world at your feet?

We see a world to be explored. Recently, with our operations in Europe, when I travel to establish these new ventures, I usually go to these new places and assist with the legal and regulatory structure of the operations. Pablo does his work in the commercial area, and often

I’ve had the opportunity to accompany these commercial presentations. The enchantment I see in people when they hear about the solutions we are proposing is fantastic.

It gives us the conviction that we have in our hands innovative solutions, solutions that can revolutionize people’s lives. This feeds the dream and the desire to keep moving forward.

Do you think there is a common denominator among the people and

families that are part of Spraytec?

Here in Brazil, there is a saying that opposites attract. But for me, that’s not true; it’s quite the opposite—like attracts like. So, as you go through life, you find people who adhere to your way of thinking and to your dreams. And this group of people with the same ideals and objectives has come together. It’s a group with uniformity in thoughts, values, principles, and ideals. Our challenge is to keep awakening these values, ideals, and dreams

Metaphor

in people. For this reason, we constantly invite people to join us in this dream. We have a strong conviction and certainty that we are dreaming the right dream. We are on the right path.

At Spraytec, there is no procedural manual; it is written by the people.

That’s the idea. Spraytec is obviously an organized company with procedures that

lead to the results we desire. But the metaphorical concept I want to convey is that in many large multinational companies, there is no personality. People occupy positions and spaces and must follow a pre-written manual, usually defined by an entity called “Global,” which sets out the paths they must follow and provides a very clear step-by-step guide.

At Spraytec, we hand out a

manual with blank pages where the person who joins us writes their own story, becoming the protagonist of that development. And this protagonism generates achievements and at the same time brings responsibilities. Spraytec is a space for transformation and creation, where people can leave a legacy, a constructed story.

Thank you, Reginaldo!

“I really enjoy negotiating actions, creating conviction, harmonizing conflicting situations, and inspiring people to be interested in prosperity and the development of the company”

Spraytec

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The technology that is sweeping the world Spraytec®, more than 300 million hectares treated.