SPRAYTEC MAGAZINE 09 ING by Spraytec

EDITORIAL

Dear Spraytec Global Readers

In this edition, we can read about Claudio “Bugui” Santanna, who shows us his B side in an unmissable identikit.

“Regenerative agriculture is a silent revolution that aims to change the way we interact with the soil and the environment in general,” says Pablo Lafuente in an unmissable column.

Topseed®: Yield Response in Soybean to Different Seed Treatments** is the research article developed by Daniela Becheran, Juan Grispi, and Daniel Miralles. “In terms of biomass partitioning, both aerial biomass and root biomass were higher in the seed treatments that were combined with Topseed®,” is one of the conclusions.

The interview is with Aquiles Dias, Director of the COAMO cooperative, one of the biggest business powerhouses in Brazil. To give an idea of their impact and production, he tells us, “We are large soybean producers in Brazil. We industrialize the cooperative members’ products to add value to them. We have three soybean oil processing plants. We process 10 thousand tons of soybean oil per day; its derivatives are marketed throughout Brazil, and we export to Latin America.”

The place on the planet to discover in our “Territorial Roots” section this time is Nebraska, where corn, the state’s most important crop, symbolizes both Nebraska’s agricultural history and its promising future.

In the world, it is worth the redundancy: there is a world of spices. Mainly in dried form, we find flowers, buds, fruits, seeds, bark, roots, rhizomes, bulbs, or parts thereof, in addition to the leaves, fresh or dried, of a wide variety of herbs. Nuala Szler tells us more about this topic.

And also, the snapshots—those photos that portray the Spraytec world!

I hope it exceeds your expectations!

Editorial

Identikit

Claudio “Bugui” Santanna

Research

Topseed ® (Fulltec Plus ST) Yield response in soybean crop to different seed treatments

By: Daniela Becheran, Juan Grispi and Daniel Miralles

Interview with Aquiles Dias, Director of COAMO cooperative

By: Juan Carlos Grasa

Report

Spices in the world and a world of spices

By: Nuala Szler

Territorial Roots

Nebraska

Report

Regenerative agriculture

By: Pablo Lafuente

Snapshots

General production: Horizonte A ediciones

CLAUDIO “BUGUI” SANTANNA

IDENTIKIT

Position in the company?

Head of Technical and Commercial Operations in Buenos Aires, La Pampa, Uruguay, and Bolivia

Would you have liked to do something else for a living?

I don’t think so, otherwise, I would have had no problem changing.

How do you imagine your life in 10 years?

In full activity, always with some project and challenge ahead.

Best reason to smile?

Seeing my family happy and being close to true friends.

A role model in life?

Two, definitely my parents. I was lucky to meet great, down-to-earth people.

A brand?

Spraytec. The slogan “Once… always” seems brilliant to me.

An Argentine pride?

Right now, the national foot-

ball team.

What does Gallardo’s return mean?

It means dreaming big again. Living with greatness.

If you could travel through time, who would you like to meet?

I’m really hooked on the history of empires. Maybe a Viking king.

Something everyone should have?

An order form booklet under their arm.

Why “Bugui”?

It’s associated with the character from Fontanarrosa, Boogie the Oily. Chiqui Latorre gave me the nickname when I was just starting my professional career at Nidera; I had done an internship in sunflower at Nidera’s oil mill in Junín, and since I was living in Junín, they also saw me as having the profile of a serial salesman... I never pressured anyone to buy from me... hahaha.

Of the places you’ve already visited, which one would you return to?

Probably one of the many little towns in the Italian countryside; the sea and the mountains of Córdoba also bring me comfort.

What does Spraytec mean in your life?

It’s a very beautiful stage I’m going through, a change in every sense, which stimulates me a lot and allows me to give my best. An incredible group of people, I enjoy it immensely, a disruptive idea, a lot of brilliance, they let me do my thing. The phrase “Thanks Spraytec for so much, and sorry for so little” fits perfectly. It generates a huge commitment. Eternally grateful.

If you had to organize an expedition to the desert with Spraytec colleagues, who would you take, knowing you’ll face extreme situations?

Everyone would have a place, but let’s name names.

Who would carry the supplies?

Knowing the group, no one would shy away from it; we’d share the load.

Who would cook?

SANTANNA

Mariano is a great cook, I haven’t had the pleasure of trying his specialties, but I’d join as a kitchen assistant.

Who would manage the provisions?

Definitely Lautaro! He’s a great improviser; he always says, “We do the best we can with the tools we have.”

Who would bring calm in difficult moments?

I see my friend Juancito fitting this role perfectly, but there’s a lot of strength in the team; Carlitos, Josi, Emilio, Julito— the most experienced—would contribute all their knowledge and experience to help us get through.

Who would coordinate the group?

No one better than Pablo, without a doubt.

Identikit

Topseed® (Fulltec Plus ST)

Yield Response in Soybean Cultivation to Different Seed Treatments

1Department of Industrial Crops and 2Department of Cereal Science, 3IFEVA-CONICET, Faculty of Agronomy, University of Buenos Aires, Av. San Martin 4453 CABA (1417) Argentina. Spraytec-FAUBA Technological Linkage Project

Introduction

Higher productivity in crops is achieved through the correct application of inputs at the right time. Therefore, greater production is not only based on the quantity of inputs used but also on the understanding of the crop to efficiently utilize these inputs. In this context, understanding the mechanisms behind the responses to agro-input applications in crops is essential to comprehend which crop attributes are modified when these inputs are used.

In the past, higher productivity was solely based on the application of synthetic inputs primarily oriented towards the most studied macronutrients, which are generally observed

to be more deficient, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, sulfur, etc. However, in recent years, deficiencies in other macro and micronutrients have also been detected, which have shown responses in crop yield and quality. Generally, the nutritional response of crops is supported by the law of the minimum (Liebig’s Law - Paris, 1992), meaning that the deficiency of a specific nutrient affects the absorption of another nutrient that is not deficient (Paris, 1992).

For several years now, the incorporation of biological products in agriculture has steadily increased in response to the need for sustainable and efficient practices in agricultural systems. The latest ReTaa report from the Buenos Aires

Grain Exchange (https://www. bolsadecereales.com/tecnologia-informes, July 2024) shows a sustained increase in the use of seed treatments, particularly biological products applied to seeds, which increased from 2% in 2019 to 16% in 2023 (ReTaa, 2024).

The objective of this project was to evaluate the response in yield and biomass partitioning (aerial and root) to the application of different seed treatments combined with Topseed®.

Materials and Methods

The trial was conducted during the 2023/2024 season at the experimental field of the Department of Cereal Science, Faculty of Agronomy, University of Buenos Aires. To characterize root growth, a set of three rhizotrons was constructed. A rhizotron is a metal container with a transparent acrylic wall that allows observation of not only the

“In order to characterize root growth, a set of three root growth, a set of three rhizotrons was constructed.”

1,2Daniela Becheran, 2Juan Grispi y 2,3Daniel Miralles

Yield (g pl-1), Number of grains, and Grain weight (g) in the different seed treatments. Different letters indicate statistically significant differences (Tukey’s test, p < 0.05).

Table 1

Total biomass (g pl-1), pod weight (g pl-1), and numerical yield components in main stems (MS) and pods. All data are expressed per plant.

aerial part of the crop but also the dynamics of root growth and its rhizosphere throughout the crop cycle. In this case, the rhizotrons were tilted at a 25° angle, facilitating the observation of root growth throughout the crop cycle. The acrylic front was covered with 200-micron black nylon to prevent light from entering the root system and was re-

moved weekly to take photographs of the root system’s development.

In each rhizotron, five soybean seeds (equivalent to a density of 30 plants m-2) of the DM46R18 variety were sown with equidistant spacing. Three different treatments were implemented for the seeds: (i) T1: CONTROL

(Chemical treatment (Progus) + Bradyrhizobium (NodoFix HC)), (ii) T2: TOPSEED® + Chemical treatment (Progus) + Bradyrhizobium (NodoFix HC), and (iii) T3: TOPSEED® + Bradyrhizobium (NodoFix HC) + Trichoderma (Microvidas). Each rhizotron was assigned to a single treatment.

During crop development,

Rhizotrons with seed treatments T1, T2, and T3 at different stages of the ontogenetic cycle. A) 33 days after sowing, beginning of flowering (R1); B) 40 days after sowing, full flowering (R2); and C) 55 days after sowing, beginning of fructification (R3).

Figure

Figure 3

Number of pods per plant, separated by the frequency of grains per pod in the different seed treatments (T1, T2, and T3).

the progress of root growth was monitored through the acrylic. Upon reaching physiological maturity (R7, according to Fehr and Caviness scale, 1977), the acrylic was removed, and the roots of all plants were washed separate-

ly for subsequent scanning and analysis using WinRhizo® software. This software was used to determine the root length and diameter per plant for all treatments. The roots were then dried in an oven to determine their dry weight.

Simultaneously, at physiological maturity, the aerial biomass was processed by separating the different plant organs. Yield, grain weight and number, pod number, and grains per pod were evaluated. These were dried in an oven to determine their dry weight.

To determine the effect of the treatments on the different analyzed variables, analysis of variance (ANOVA, p < 0.05) was performed using the InfoStat software (Di Rienzo et al., 2011).

Results

Plants that received the Chemical treatment (Progus) + Bradyrhizobium (NodoFix HC) showed a 38% increase in yield per plant (p < 0.05) when TopSeed® (T2) was added compared to the control without TopSeed (T1). However, when TopSeed® was combined with Bradyrhizobium (NodoFix HC) + Trichoderma (Microvidas) (T3), the yield

Aerial and root biomass (g pl-1) based on treatments. Examples of a) aerial biomass at harvest, b) clean root, c) root photo in WinRhizo® software.

Figure 4

“Seed treatments that included TopSeed®, recorded a significant increase in the total biomass of the plants compared to the control”

per plant was not significantly different from T1 and T2, but there was a trend towards being higher than the control (T1) (Figure 1).

Regarding the main yield components, variations in the number of grains per plant followed the same pattern as variations in yield per plant, with T2 showing the highest number of grains per plant, followed by T3, although the differences were not significant (Figure 1). The average weight (1000 grain weight) did not show any differences between treatments. In summary, the treatments primarily increased yield through a higher number of grains per plant without causing changes in grain weight.

The analysis of the physiological and numerical yield components per plant, both in the main stem and branches, was conducted. The results showed that seed treatments including TopSeed® registered a significant increase in the total biomass of the plants compared to the control.

In treatment T2, which combined TopSeed® with a chemical treatment, the total biomass per plant was 39% higher than the control (p < 0.05, Table 1). On the other hand, in treatment T3, which used Trichoderma without a chemical treatment, the biomass was 24% higher compared to the control (p > 0.05, Table 1). This response was especially notable from the onset of fructification (R3, ac-

cording to the Fehr and Caviness scale, 1977), 55 days after sowing (Figure 2).

Treatment T2 showed a greater number of pods per plant, mainly in the main stem, and although not significant, it also presented more pods in the branches compared to the control and treatment T3. Treatments T2 and T3, both with TopSeed® application, showed a higher number of nodes compared to T1, with this difference being significant in treatment T2 (Table 1).

The highest frequency of grains per pod ranged between 2 and 3 grains per pod. In both cases, treatments with TopSeed® had the highest number of pods with this range of grains per pod (be-

Figure 5

Length (cm pl-1) and diameter (mm) of roots for seed treatments T1, T2, and T3.

tween 2-3 grains). The control consistently showed fewer pods with a frequency of 2-3 grains per pod (Figure 3).

Regarding biomass partitioning, both aerial and root biomass were greater in the seed treatments combined with TopSeed®. In treatment T2, the aerial biomass per plant exceeded the control (T1) by 40% (p < 0.05), and in T3, it was 24% higher than the aerial biomass of the plants in the control situation (T1) (Figure 4).

Root biomass was also significantly greater in crops treated with TopSeed® compared to the control, with increases of 27% and 24% (p < 0.05) in T2 and T3, respectively (Figure 4). In seed treatment T2, root

length was significantly greater than in treatments T1 and T3. Root diameter was not statistically different (p > 0.10) between treatments T1 and T2, but treatment T3 had thinner roots (p < 0.05) (Figure 5).

Conclusions

- Seed treatments with TopSeed® increased soybean yield due to greater aerial biomass, which also promoted higher root biomass. This yield, associated with a higher number of grains per plant, was linked to a greater number of pods per plant.

- The establishment of pods with a frequency of 2-3 grains per pod was higher when TopSeed® was applied, especially when combined with Trichoderma, compared.

“In terms of biomass partition, both aerial biomass and root biomass were higher in the seed treatments that were combined with Topseed®”

INTERVIEW with Aquiles Dias

Life is What Transforms Us

Juan Carlos Grasa Director of HorizonteA

Good morning, Aquiles. First of all, what do you think of Buenos Aires, this city that was once called “the great capital of an empire that never was”?

Argentina was a developed country, very important to the world, even wealthier than the United States. And for some reasons, it deteriorated over the years. Buenos Aires is a very admired and welcoming capital; being here is always a great satisfaction, especially with my wife and the friends from Spraytec.

It is very beautiful to enjoy everything the city has to offer—the architecture, the restaurants, the tango. It’s something I really love. The best thing here is its people, truly very cultured people, which I confirmed at the El Ateneo bookstore. In that fantastic place, I saw many people buying books. And that is a big difference. It means that the people have culture, that they invest in culture, and that they have a higher level

On a cold morning in Buenos Aires, I headed to the majestic Alvear Hotel, located in the Recoleta neighborhood on the avenue of the same name. The hotel is a faithful witness to the “Belle Epoque,” that prosperous Argentina of the 1920s. There, invited by Spraytec, Aquiles Dias, Director of the COAMO cooperative, one of the largest business powers in Brazil, was waiting for me.

of knowledge compared to others.

In Argentina, just by fixing a few issues, its people could transform Argentina into a very important country for the world, one that can truly provide everything its people deserve in terms of security, comfort, and well-being.

Tell us a bit about the scale of the cooperative you represent.

We are a cooperative from Brazil, founded in the State of Paraná in 1970. At that time, 79 farmers came together because they had a lot of difficulty working and

doing things together, so they founded a cooperative encouraged by an agronomist who was from the public system and who is still our president today, Dr. José Heróldo Galassino. From that need, COAMO was founded.

From there, do you mainly invest in technologies?

Yes, it is a very different place from Argentina because there, if you don’t invest in technology, nothing gets produced. The lands are very poor, acidic, and without nutrients - with just the soil alone, nothing can be produced - that’s why technology is needed. And that was the key point of the

“We process 10 thousand tons of soybean oil per day”

cooperative’s development, a strong investment in bringing technology to the members. To give you an idea, we have an experimental farm there that is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, and all the development and technology work that was transferred to our collaborators was done within this farm.

I imagine you are not alone in this task.

We have strong support from Brazilian universities and the public research system. We have an entity that was very important for the development of the agricultural business in Brazil, Embrapa (Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation), and it really made a difference.

I know the role Embrapa plays in Brazilian production is very important.

More than a thousand Embrapa technicians studied abroad in the 1970s, and when they returned, they brought technology for the tropical system. This transformed Brazil into what it is today. In lands that had no natural capacity for production, we now have some of the best yields in the world. Brazil competes on equal terms with Argentina and the United States. In soybean production, this has been the great transformation that has occurred in the last 50 years.

And from those 79

pioneers, how many are in COAMO today?

From 79 farmers, there are now 32,000; from being solely in the state of Paraná, we are now in Paraná, Santa Catarina, and Mato Grosso do Sul. We have an area of approximately 4 million hectares cultivated by our members.

And is the central business soybeans?

We are major soybean producers in Brazil. We industrialize the product from our members to add value. We have three soybean oil processing plants. We process 10,000 tons of soybean oil per day, and we market its derivatives throughout Brazil and export them to Latin America. This significantly adds value to our members’ production and brings profitability to them.

You must also be generating quality jobs, I imagine quite a few professionals are employed by the cooperative?

We have a very strong technical team, with over 400 agronomists working in the field, providing technical assistance to our members. Agriculture in Brazil is very different from agriculture here in Argentina and also in the United States. It requires intensive technology; we have issues with diseases and pests, and it truly needs the producer to be very well ad-

vised to get the best results.

I read a slogan somewhere when you celebrated 50 years: “Life is what transforms us.”

Yes! Life is what transforms us, and that’s what has happened over these 54 years.

How has this great cooperative transformed you, Aquiles Dias, as a person from the time you joined until now, leading such an institution?

I’m originally from Rio Grande do Sul, from a family of small farmers. I come from a family of 10 siblings and am the only one who went to university. I studied agronomy and graduated as an agronomist in 1986. On January 5, 1986, I graduated, and on January 8, 1986, I started working at the cooperative. It’s been 38 years now. From Rio Grande do Sul, I went to the state of Paraná.

How did your career start at the cooperative?

I started as a field agronomist, providing technical assistance to our producers. Then, I was in charge of seed production, and after that, I was the purchasing manager and technical superintendent. For the past 5 years, I’ve been one of the 5 directors, reporting to the president. I oversee the supply and technical assistance areas.

How does COAMO

“We have an area of approximately 4 million hectares, which are cultivated by our collaborators”

“We always develop this cooperative spirit also in our employees”

promote cooperative activities for the future and with new generations?

We always develop this cooperative spirit in our employees as well. For children from the age of 5, we have a magazine called Coamo Kids where we plant the seed of cooperativism. From the age of 12, when they become teenagers, we have a program called Futuro Coop where we work with teenagers on cooperativism and their own personal development.

And what message do you convey through these means?

We help them choose a profession, manage money, control emotions, and generally develop the cooperative spirit. Starting at 18, we have a program called Young Cooperative Leaders with university professors, under an agreement with the Federal University of the State of Paraná, which is really a property management program. From this program, we also train the cooperative advisors who will assist in management.

We work with women and men of all ages to promote the beautiful concept of cooperativism.

Thank you, Aquiles, a pleasure to meet you!

Spices in the World, and a World of Spices

By: Lic. Nuala Szler

In the world, quite fittingly, there is a world of spices. Primarily in dried form, we find flowers, buds, fruits, seeds, barks, roots, rhizomes, bulbs, or parts of them. Additionally, we have fresh or dried leaves from a wide variety of herbs.

The production, marketing, and consumption of spices are indeed global. This has been significantly driven recently by the rise of healthier, individualized dietary trends (such as veganism) and therefore, much more diverse diets.

But let’s not take away their own merit. The vast array of spices produced and traded across the globe gives each dish, recipe, or preparation a unique and unmistakable flavor. In many cases, they are the “secret ingredient” that completely revolutionizes everyday culinary options. But in

many others, they are the soul of a particular preparation, without which it is practically impossible to enjoy.

Moreover, the uses and applications of spices have also diversified. About a third of the world’s spices are consumed in private homes, while more than half of this production is destined for the food industry and trade. Additionally, the global demand for a greater variety of flavors, as well as the desire for more natural and personalized foods, significantly contributes to the current prominence of spices.

A World of Spices: Types and Popular Blends

The variety of spices and herbs in the world is too vast (and special) to do justice in a brief general report. However, they have been classified, at least those spices and herbs with widespread consumption and popularity. Here are some examples...

- Fruit and Seed Spices: pepper, paprika, vanilla, mustard, black mustard, anise, star anise, cumin, coriander, juniper, nutmeg, fenugreek, cardamom, sesame, sumac.

- Flower Spices: cloves, saffron, capers, mace.

- Rhizome and Root Spices: ginger, turmeric, horseradish, galangal.

- Bark Spices: cinnamon.

- Leaf Spices: mint, parsley, basil, tarragon, oregano, sage, rosemary, thyme, dill, bay leaf.

- Allium Spices: dehydrated garlic, dehydrated onion.

When it comes to blends of spices and herbs, we can distinguish between pure spice blends (composed exclusively of spices) and spice preparations. The latter consist of mixtures of one or more spices, to which other ingredients

are added to provide flavor or a certain effect: sugar, salt, oil, yeast extract, glutamate, starch.

Some of the most recognized spice blends are:

- Madras Curry (India): turmeric, fenugreek, coriander, cumin, ginger, chili, allspice, nutmeg, cardamom, and cloves.

- Garam Masala (India): cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, pepper, fenugreek, cumin.

- Ras el Hanout (North Africa): turmeric, coriander, pepper, chili, bay leaf, ginger, cloves, anise, cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamom, galangal, fenugreek, cumin.

- Baharat (Middle East): pepper, paprika, coriander, cloves, cumin, cardamom, nutmeg, cinnamon.

- Five Spice Powder (China):

star anise, Szechuan pepper, cinnamon, fennel, cloves.

- Herbes de Provence (France): rosemary, basil, thyme, marjoram, oregano, tarragon, fennel, lavender, chervil, lovage.

- Chili Powder (characteristic of Tex-Mex cuisine): cayenne pepper, cumin, garlic, oregano.

The Global Spice Trade

As mentioned, the cultivation and production of spices for commercial purposes is a global activity. Warm or tropical regions dominate this industry due to their ideal growth conditions.

Spain, for example, is the largest producer and processor of paprika in the world. India consumes a significant portion of its diverse spice production and is also a major supplier to the United Kingdom. The international consumption and trade of spices in China is equally significant. Additionally, Brazil is the main exporter of pepper to European countries.

The spice trade continues to grow steadily, driven by new trends and new players focused on prioritizing nutrition, creativity, and food quality. There is also a well-established marketing strategy around spices, emphasizing natural purity, health, variety, and enjoyment.

Another success factor is that there are specific spices that complement and enhance the flavor of various dishes, recipes, and preparations for every dietary habit and choice. Recently, traditional or commonly used spices have been revalued and transformed into products that define and accompany a lifestyle.

As a result, we find various fresher and higher quality proposals, free from artificial aromas, colorants, preservatives, genetic manipulation, or hydrogenated fats.

What aspects define the quality and value of a spice?

Given the vast variety and diversity of spices in the world, defining their value can be overly generalizing without a detailed study of each one. However, certain varieties, such as saffron, have a long history of exclusivity and economic value.

Regarding spice quality standards, there are some common parameters like compliance with international food standards, jointly defined by the World Health Organization (WHO) and international entities such as the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).

The spice trade dates back to the oldest civilizations, becoming an important part of their culture and diet.

Standard quality controls for spices involve various actions, such as microbiological risk studies, examination of phytosanitary regulations, label accuracy, and random checks before processing according to statistically determined specifications in the producing and receiving countries.

Quality levels are also defined by characteristics such as the appearance and color of the sample, the intensity of its aroma and flavor, its essential oil content, the presence of germs, granule quality, chemical ingredient percentage analysis, and the accuracy of associated documentation in each case.

Now, the treatment given to each type of spice, including the applied processes, is subject to its sensitivity, components, and subsequent uses in each case. However, there are general treatments aimed at reducing the presence of germs, as well as drying processes to reduce the water content.

This latter aspect is central, as spices have good preservation properties only if the water content is around 10%; at the time of harvest, it is approximately 80%. The drying processes for spices are often costly, mainly because they must be carried out at low temperatures and with great care.

In other aspects, the processing tends to diversify. Not all spices undergo a grinding process, such as seeds and fruits. Leaf spices like bay leaves, for example, are kept whole. Some root spices, like ginger, are first extracted, and then the unnecessary parts are removed or cut.

Grinding, a process that extends to a large number of spices, is one of the most important stages in the production cycle and significantly influences the final aroma and flavor. Grinding spices involves enlarging their surface area and, thus, intensifying the aroma and flavor. Careful and fine grinding directly determines the quality of the product and, consequently, its price.

Health Properties of Spices

In addition to the well-being and pleasure of enjoying a well-seasoned dish, spices provide numerous health benefits. Many of them have a valuable antibacterial effect, related to their essential oil content, which inhibits the generation of pathogenic factors. They are also notable for their combination of natural antioxidants, which minimize free radicals.

Currently, one of the spices that has gained unprecedent-

ed popularity is turmeric. This is due to its antibacterial effects and its ability to reduce blood cholesterol, but most importantly, its prominent role in vegan and vegetarian diets.

Among the healthiest spices, to mention a few of the most commonly used, are: anise, basil, dill, fennel, cardamom, garlic, cilantro, cumin, bay leaf, mace, nutmeg, clove, oregano, paprika, parsley, pepper, mint, rosemary, thyme, and cinnamon.

To conclude, a bit of history

The spice trade dates back to the oldest civilizations, becoming an important part of their culture and diet. European merchants of the 15th century, especially Venetians, amassed great wealth by dominating the spice trade with India. Their search and commercialization of spices even contributed to the impetus for the voyages of conquest. Exotic spices were considered a status symbol and a valuable commodity, on par with precious metals, and were used as rewards for the discoverers of unknown lands. These crusades also brought many of the most important spices to Europe, such as paprika, Tabasco pepper, vanilla, pepper, clove, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

TERRITORIAL ROOTS

NEBRASKA

History

Nebraska became the 37th state of the United States on March 1, 1867. Since its admission to the Union, Nebraska’s history has been rich and varied, marked by its political, economic, and social development.

The state capital was moved from Omaha to Lincoln in 1867, in honor of Abraham Lincoln, who was recently assassinated. The decision to move the capital was strategic, aiming to balance political power among the different regions of the state.

During the latter part of the 19th century, the state experienced rapid population growth due to the expansion of the railroad and federal land policies, such as the Homestead Act of 1862, which granted land to settlers willing to work and live on it. This period saw a significant influx of European immigrants, particularly Germans, Czechs, and Scandinavians, who settled in the vast agricultural lands of the state.

20th Century

In the early 20th century, Nebraska continued its expansion and development. The state’s economy diversified, yet agriculture continued to be its backbone.The cities of Omaha and Lincoln became

important commercial and industrial centers.

The Great Depression of the 1930s severely affected the state, as it did much of the country, leading to a decrease in agricultural production and significant economic hardships for its residents. However, the state began to recover in the 1940s, partly due to the demand for agricultural products during World War II.

Modern Era

From the latter half of the 20th century to the present, Nebraska has seen steady growth and modernization of its infrastructure. The state has diversified its economy beyond agriculture, with significant developments in manufacturing, financial services, and technology.

The state’s educational system, including the University of Nebraska, has played a crucial role in the state’s development, providing education and research opportunities that have contributed to economic and social growth.

Demographics and Ethnic Origin

Nebraska’s population is diverse, with a mix of descendants from Europeans, Latinos, African Americans, and Asians. According to

the 2020 census, the state’s total population is approximately 1,961,504 people.

- Non-Hispanic Whites: They make up the majority of the population, at 78.4%. Most of these residents have German, Irish, English, and Czech ancestry.

- Latinos: Represent about 11.3% of the population, with the Mexican community being the largest among Hispanics.

- African Americans: Constitute around 5.2% of the population.

- Asians: Represent 2.8% of the population.

- Native Americans: Although in smaller proportion, native tribes such as the Omaha, Ponca, Santee Sioux, and Winnebago have a presence in the state.

Points of Interest

- Omaha: Culture lovers will find that Omaha offers a wide range of options. One of the top spots is the Joslyn Art Museum, where you can admire a world-class collection featuring pieces from around the globe, from Degas to Renoir.

- Scotts Bluff National Monument: Several trails wind through the area, giving you

the opportunity to hike and view the cliffs from multiple angles.

- Lincoln: It is one of the most beautiful, busy, and interesting places to visit in Nebraska, not to mention its role as the state capital. The Capitol building should definitely be on your itinerary. The University of Nebraska is located in Lincoln, and its sporting events are by far the biggest in the city.

- Fort Robinson State Park: An expansive park where the history and landscape of the Old West truly come to life. In the late 19th century, Fort Robinson was used as a military outpost, and now it is the best way to explore the more rural side of the region.

- Carhenge: This is made entirely of old cars that were made in the United States, but all have been painted gray to resemble Stonehenge.

- Chimney Rock: This sandstone formation is over 300 feet tall and is located in the North Platte Valley.

- Cowboy Trail: Located in the Niobrara River Valley. These trails were created on the site of the former Chicago and Northwestern Railway corridor. Today, the trail spans nearly 200 miles from rails to trails.

What is the best month to visit Nebraska?

The best time to visit Nebraska is from September to October, during the fall season. The autumn foliage paints the Nebraska landscape with vibrant colors during this

time, and the nice weather allows visitors to enjoy the wide range of outdoor activities that Nebraska offers.

Religion

Nebraska is predominantly Protestant, reflecting a long tradition of European settlements, particularly of German and Scandinavian origin, who brought their religious beliefs with them.

- Protestantism: Protestant denominations, especially Lutherans and Methodists, are the most common. The Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod and the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America have a significant presence.

- Catholicism: Catholics also have a notable presence in the state, representing approximately 23% of the population, with a strong influence in cities like Omaha and Lincoln.

- Other Religions: There is a small but growing presence of other religions, including Judaism, Islam, and Buddhism, primarily in urban areas.

Religious communities have been instrumental in the establishment of schools, hospitals, and other social institutions.

Agriculture

Nebraska’s agricultural history began with Native American tribes such as the Pawnee and the Oto, who practiced farming and grew maize, beans, and squash long before the arrival of European settlers. As European settlers established them-

selves in the region in the mid-19th century, agriculture became one of the main economic activities. The Homestead Act of 1862 facilitated the establishment of family farms by granting land parcels to settlers who committed to cultivating them. This attracted thousands of farmers who transformed the vast prairies into productive agricultural lands.

Agriculture in Nebraska has evolved significantly over the years. From its beginnings with rudimentary farming techniques, agriculture in the state has incorporated technological and scientific advancements that have greatly increased productivity and efficiency.

- Agricultural Machinery: The introduction of tractors, harvesters, and mechanical planters in the 20th century revolutionized agriculture, allowing producers to work more land with less labor.

- Irrigation: Nebraska is a leader in the use of irrigation systems, particularly center pivot irrigation, which has enabled producers to farm in areas with lower precipitation.

The development of genetically modified crops (GMOs) has also allowed producers to grow varieties of corn and soybeans that are more resistant to pests, diseases, and adverse weather conditions.

In recent years, there has been a growing focus on sustainable agriculture, with practices such as crop rotation, conservation tillage, and integrated pest management to ensure soil health

and long-term productivity.

The University of Nebraska

Particularly through its Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources (IANR), the University of Nebraska has played a crucial role in the state’s agricultural development. Founded in 1869 as part of the Morrill Act, the university has been a center for agricultural research, education, and extension.

Researchers at the University of Nebraska have made significant contributions in areas such as crop improvement, water resource management, and agricultural sustainability. These advances have been crucial in increasing the productivity and efficiency of Nebraska farms.

The University of Nebraska Extension Service provides educational resources and technical advice to producers. Through workshops, seminars, and publications, the university helps producers implement the latest innovations and best practices in their operations.

The University of Nebras-

ka has trained countless agronomists, agricultural engineers, and soil scientists who have contributed to agricultural progress both at the state and national levels.

Corn Cultivation

Corn is the most significant crop, not only in terms of cultivated area but also in its economic and cultural impact. Nebraska consistently ranks among the top corn producers in the United States, contributing significantly to both national and global supplies.

1. Economic Importance:

Corn is the cornerstone of the agricultural economy. It is used for animal feed, ethanol production, and as a raw material for numerous food and non-food products. The ethanol industry, in particular, has grown considerably, providing an additional market for corn producers.

2. Innovation and Productivity:

Nebraska producers have adopted hybrid and genetically modified corn varieties that offer higher yields and resistance to pests and diseases.

Additionally, the implementation of precision agriculture technologies has optimized input use and improved production efficiency.

3. Sustainability:

Despite intensive corn production, Nebraska producers are increasingly focused on sustainable practices to preserve soil health and water resources. This includes crop rotation with soybeans and wheat, the use of cover crops, and efficient irrigation management.

Agriculture in Nebraska is a fundamental pillar of the state’s economy and culture. Over the years, it has evolved from rudimentary practices to a highly technological and sustainable industry. The University of Nebraska has been a crucial ally in this development, providing research, education, and technical support to producers. Corn, as the state’s most important crop, symbolizes both Nebraska’s agricultural history and its promising future. With a focus on innovation and sustainability, agriculture in Nebraska will continue to thrive and adapt to the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century.

Regenerative Agriculture

Pablo Lafuente

Global Business Director

Spraytec is investing in a research and development program based on the concept of regenerative agriculture, providing a range of solutions for farmers that include microorganisms that fix atmospheric nitrogen and promote crop growth, as well as products containing carbon and nutrients that improve the biome, quality, and health of the soil.

Our vision of regenerative agriculture is defined as a holistic and sustainable approach to land management and food production. It focuses on restoring and enhancing the health of agricultural ecosystems, aiming to make them more resilient,

productive, and sustainable over time.

One of the main features of this proposal is its focus on the sustainability of production. It recognizes that a healthy environment is fundamental for producing high-quality food and mitigating environmental issues.

Regenerative Agriculture (R.A.) employs practices such as direct seeding (notill farming), the use of cover crops, and crop rotation to improve soil structure, increase its capacity to retain water and carbon, and promote beneficial microbial activity. It is not merely a method of cultivation, but rather a silent revolution aimed at transforming how we interact with the soil and the environment in general.

Imagine a production system where each seed not only brings life to the crop but also nourishes and regenerates the soil in which it grows. Imagine agricultural operations that are not only productive but also function as living ecosystems. This concept is at the heart of regenerative agriculture, which combines science and technology with a deep understanding of the interconnection between land, water, biodiversity, and human communities.

In summary, when we think of regenerative agriculture, we think not only of producing more and better food but also of regenerating and strengthening agricultural ecosystems, making them more sustainable for the present and future generations.