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Editorial

Enjoying the Journey

What is a company? A company is an organization made up of people who work together to produce goods or services that meet consumer needs, according to the experts. I would add that, in the case of Spraytec, it is also “a project based on enjoying the journey, not just reaching a destination.”

So, what truly matters to us? The personal project of each individual. We want every member of the company to achieve professional success.

As I mentioned in the interview conducted by Juan Carlos Grasa for this edition, I truly believe that when we focus on the personal, professional, and economic growth of each member of Spraytec, we create a different kind of work environment. The company then becomes a group of people united by a shared purpose. If those people are successful, the company is successful as a consequence; and if those people are joyful, they radiate that same joy and optimism to our clients and our friends.

This is what all of us who are part of the Spraytec family have achieved, and I feel genuinely happy about it!

In this edition, we’ll also get to know Soriano, Uruguay — a beautiful spot on this farming planet of ours.

Through our Identikit section, we get to learn more about Marcela Checco, Field Marketing Manager in Brazil.

Fabián Beranek, founding partner of Zona Rural SRL, shares the story of how his family business has grown over the past 15 years, highlighting his focus on product quality and the importance of strong relationships and shared values with business partners, especially with Spraytec.

We also spoke with Dan Luepkes, a farmer from Illinois, who told us about the crops he grows, the technology he uses on his farm, and his experience visiting Argentina.

Facundo Menta dives into a hot topic — the use of drones in Digital Agriculture. “Being aware from the very first minute of the variables we need to manage, in order to deliver the active ingredient to the target of the application, seems to be the key,” he says.

Today, decisions in agriculture are made in real time, with accurate data, optimizing resources and maximizing production. But are we ready to adapt to this new era? How can the agronomist not only stay relevant, but also lead this change? Mariano Larrazabal explores this topic in depth.

I hope it exceeds expectations!

Until the next edition!

Editorial

Enjoying the journey

By: Diego Parodi

Identikit

Marcela Checco

Distributors

Fabian Beranek: “We Feel a Strong Connection with Spraytec”

By: Juan Carlos Grasa

Interview with Dan Luepkes

“FULLTEC offers you everything in one product”

By: Juan Alaise

General production: Horizonte A editions

Territorial Roots

Soriano, Uruguay

Interview with Diego Parodi

“I believe it’s very important to improve the agro ecosystem”

By: Juan Carlos Grasa

Report

DRONES – Are We Ready to Take on the Challenge?

By: Facundo Menta

Report

Digital Transformation for Agronomists: Adapt or Fall Behind

By: Mariano Larrazabal

Snapshots

Identikit

MARCELA

1. Profession and role in the company?

Field Marketing Manager

2. What’s something you wouldn’t share with anyone?

I don’t share my plans before they work out—I’m pretty superstitious about that.

3. What do you imagine your life will be like in 10 years?

In 10 years, I see myself closer to my goal of becoming a technical reference in the field of plant nutrition and physiology. I know it’s a long journey, but I’m happy to be on it alongside amazing professionals I learn from every day.

4. What’s the best reason to smile?

My family.

5. A role model in life?

My parents are my main role models. They started from scratch, became parents very young, and despite all the challenges, they always did everything with fairness, honesty, and a lot of commitment. They are examples of strength, courage, and dedication. They inspire me every day with how they raised me

and my sisters, always prioritizing values, love, and hard work.

6. If you were an animal, which one would you be?

I’d definitely be a horse. To me, it’s an animal that embodies strength and endurance.

7. What’s your Brazilian pride?

Our agriculture carries the strength of a people who, despite constant challenges, never give up on cultivating, caring for, and feeding the world with dignity.

8. If you could have dinner with a famous person, who would you choose?

I’d love to have dinner with Clint Eastwood. I’m passionate about western movies, and he’s simply an icon of the genre. It would be amazing to hear the stories behind the camera and understand how he built such incredible characters.

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

I’d like to meet former Agriculture Minister Alysson Paolinelli. He led an incredible transformation in Brazilian agriculture and helped make Brazil the powerhouse

it is today.

10. Something everyone should have?

A good pair of boots—to walk any terrain, whether in the field, in life, or facing professional challenges.

11. Of the places you’ve visited, where would you go back to?

I fell in love with New Mexico. I had an incredible experience and would love to return someday. And I also hope to do the full Route 66 soon.

12. Marcela Checco?

I’m someone driven by genuine connections—with ideas, with the people around me, and with nature. I believe in the power of communication and carry the values I learned at home: to act with strength, honor, and respect.

13. If you had to go on an expedition to a desert island with Spraytec colleagues, who would you take, knowing you’d face extreme situations?

I love this question!!!

To carry things?

Honestly, no one comes to mind—we’d have to see who’s in the best shape at

MARCELA CHECCO

the time hahaha.

To cook?

The entire team from Minas Gerais. Just think about how well they cook—and they’re super dedicated. I’m sure they’d work miracles with the supplies we had and still make it taste amazing.

To manage supplies?

Lauro (Lauro Ala – Regional Manager of Goiás). Lauro is super organized, and I’m sure we’d make it back home with a little leftover, hahaha.

To bring calm in tough times?

Gustavo (R&D Coordinator) is hands down the calmest, most balanced person I know. When the world feels like it’s falling apart, he always has a great solution—no stress.

To coordinate the group?

Dr. Emerson has played a key role in coordinating teams, and in an extreme situation, we’d have a solid base to ensure continuity of the work.

To guarantee a safe return home?

Dr. Júlio Flagiaria—he always solves any problem (even when it seems like there’s no solution). We’d definitely make it back to Brazil without a hitch.

DISTRIBUTORS

“We Feel a Strong Connection with Spraytec”

Fabián Beranek, founding partner of Zona Rural SRL, shares the story of his family business’s 15-year journey, highlighting its focus on product quality and the importance of strong relationships and shared values with business partners—especially Spraytec.

By: Juan Carlos Grasa – Director of Horizonte A

Fabián, tell us about your company.

My name is Fabián Beranek, founding partner of Zona Rural SRL, a company celebrating its 15th anniversary this year. It’s a family-owned business, created in June 2011. I started alone, and over the years we’ve grown in the agricultural input sales market. Today, we have a structure of around 50 people.

What is your main line of business?

The purchase and sale of inputs, agrochemicals, seeds, and fertilizers. We also offer agricultural services, freight, and carry out some farming and livestock activities in the region.

We’ve always worked with different companies, seeking various types of partnerships, and around 7 or 8 years ago, we began building strong ties with Syngenta in particular.

How did Spraytec come into your life?

With Spraytec, it was a very specific situation. Ricardo Martini and Pablo Trolliet visited us many times to open an account, but after working for so many years with one particular company, it’s really hard to switch and take a chance on a new one. Then, about five years ago, we finally decided to try their products.

Soon after, Spraytec invited us to trainings, events, and trips, and we got to know the people behind the company. That’s when everything clicked.

What was that “click” about?

Honestly, we felt a deep connection with the company, especially on a human level. The way they engage with us— particularly the leadership, like Pablo Lafuente and Diego Parodi—really stood out. When I met them in person, I couldn’t believe their humility and how openly and genuinely they communicate, always solving problems day-to-day. I’m naming two people, but

truly the entire company is like that. Everyone has been outstanding with us.

How did the producers respond?

When we saw that the products really worked and were backed by people who shared the same values as our family business, it was incredibly motivating. In 2024–25, we closed with nearly 50,000 liters of product sold, which is a huge achievement for us in such a short time.

What stands out in the Spraytec–Zona Rural SRL relationship?

I think we still have a lot of room to grow together, but we really value their warmth, the way they solve problems, and the simplicity of the people leading Spraytec. They make you feel like part of the business, setting aside the usual differences that often arise in the commercial world.

How do you go from just a few liters to 50,000? What does that depend on?

Our motto at the company

“The distribution of agrochemicals and fertilizers is a highly professionalized sector in Argentina.”

is “passion, time, and clear goals.” When you put in the work, professionalism, commitment, and clear objectives, the results follow.

Often, a lack of commitment leads people to fall into the trap of price—arguably the most disruptive element in the market and for any long-term commercial goal. But when you have supportive partners, a solid product lineup, and a collaborative relationship with companies and producers—and you stay thoughtful and long-term focused—if the passion and time are there, the results come naturally.

When you mention not falling into the trap of price, do you mean valuing the product and not relying on discounting as a sales strategy?

Exactly. I think we need to revalue the industry, and we, the distributors, are largely responsible. We often undervalue the information we provide to producers and default to minimum profit margins. We don’t always appreciate the knowledge and professionalism we bring.

It’s a job that requires professionalism.

Absolutely. The distribution of agrochemicals and fertilizers is a highly professionalized sector in Argentina, and we need to recognize that collaborative work. Producers truly value that service, honesty, and support we provide.

Looking at it as a long-term effort, it’s those relationships that end up building loyalty and growing the business.

Thank you, Fabián!

Interview with Dan Luepkes

“FULLTEC

offers you everything in one product”

During Expoagro 2025 at Spraytec’s impressive stand, we had the chance to speak with Dan Luepkes, a farmer who came directly from Illinois thanks to Spraytec. Dan shared details about the crops he grows, the technology he uses on his farm, and his experiences in Argentina.

By: Juan Alaise - Lic. en Comunicación Social

What’s your name and where are you from?

Dan Luepkes, from Illinois, USA.

What crops do you grow?

Corn, soybeans, and wheat. Also some alfalfa for livestock and oats.

What kind of technology do you use on your farm?

We use several different technologies. We have RTK on our equipment and, of course, GPS.

Our spraying and irrigation equipment uses all the technologies that are currently available. We’ve got a wide range of tech tools.

Which Spraytec products

have you incorporated into your production system?

We use Fulltec on everything — practically every hectare and nearly every application.

We also use some micronutrient products like Impulse for soybeans and corn, Cubo, and other micronutrients.

What differences do you see between agriculture in Argentina and the U.S.?

Honestly, there are fewer differences than I expected. I’ve seen more soybean production than corn, or at least that’s the impression I’ve gotten from the places we’ve visited.

One thing I’ve noticed is that in our area, we’re used to seeing lots of farm infrastructure like

silos, storage sheds, and barns for equipment. We haven’t seen much of that here in Argentina during our tour, but we did see livestock in the region, which we like.

Overall, the landscape looks quite similar to ours. It’s very interesting.

What potential do you see in Spraytec products compared to others?

Well, especially Fulltec, which is a multifunctional product — cost-wise, it’s very advantageous.

When you add up the cost of surfactants, drift reducers, and pH regulators, Fulltec gives you all of that in one single product.

It’s also easy to use and requires low application rates. That’s really practical for the farmer, especially when we’re mixing several products. It

“When you add up the cost of surfactants, drift reducers, and pH regulators, Fulltec gives you all of that in one single product”

saves us steps and components.

And finally, how has your experience been on this trip to Argentina?

We’re having a great time. Spraytec has fed us well — lots of meat, barbecues… you know! We love meat, and your wines, so that’s perfect.

It’s really been a very enjoyable trip. People are very kind.

We’re enjoying the fair today, checking out the different technologies being showcased in your country. One thing I noticed is that many tractors here don’t require DEF.

In the U.S., we have to deal with an emissions control system called DEF. Here, tractors don’t need it — and I wish we didn’t either, because it’s a real hassle and very expensive!

Thank you, Dan!

TERRITORIAL ROOTS

SORIANO

The department of Soriano rises in the heart of Uruguay’s western littoral and stands out not only for its landscape and natural resources but also for its significant role in the country’s history. Bordered by two of Uruguay’s most important rivers — the Río Negro to the north and the Río Uruguay to the west — this territory has witnessed the presence of ancient Indigenous tribes, the founding of colonial settlements, and the unfolding of decisive episodes in the fight for independence.

Origins

For centuries, the lands that today make up Soriano were inhabited by various Indigenous tribes. Archaeological findings, such as ancient remains and tools, attest to the presence of native peoples in this fertile and strategic region at the confluence of major waterways. These communities, including the Chaná and Charrúa peoples, left an indelible mark on the landscape and culture, symbolized by the headband with five feathers that adorns the department’s coat of arms — a tribute to the original tribes and their ancestral traditions.

Colonial Foundation

The first European-style settlement in the area was the Santo Domingo Soriano reduction, founded in 1624 on the left bank of the Río Negro. This town — popularly known as Villa Soriano — is considered the oldest settlement in Uruguay, as it emerged during the height of Spanish colonization. Additionally, the “Puerto de las Naos,” established by Gabo-

to in 1527 at the mouth of the San Salvador River, reinforces the idea that this region marked the first point of contact between Europeans and these lands, paving the way for future settlements and the exploitation of natural resources.

Area

Soriano covers a territory of 9,008 km², representing 5.9% of Uruguay.

Geography and Hydrography: Rivers and resources that shaped the land

Soriano is defined by its privileged geographic location in the far southwest of the country. With an area of approximately 9,008 km², the department borders the Río Negro to the north, Colonia to the south, Flores to the east, and the majestic banks of the Río Uruguay to the west, which separates it from the Argentina. This hydrographic network, made up of large rivers and numerous streams, has fostered highly fertile land, essential for agri-

cultural and forestry development.

The presence of the Río Negro, whose waters not only beautify the landscape but have historically served as a navigation route and connection between towns, is vital to the department’s economy. Likewise, the Río Uruguay, with its hydroelectric-generating waters, stands as a strategic asset in terms of natural resources and environmental impact. The confluence of these watercourses has enabled the development of dams and water-use projects that support both agricultural and industrial production, making Soriano a productive heart of the country.

Mercedes

The departmental capital and most populous city is a fascinating blend of history and modernity. Founded in 1788 by priest Manuel Antonio de Castro y Careaga under the name Capilla Nueva de las Mercedes, the city was declared the department’s capital in 1857, replacing Vi-

lla Soriano. Located on the left bank of the Río Negro and at the crossroads of major national routes, such as Route 2, Route 14, and Route 21, Mercedes not only plays a strategic role in regional connectivity but also stands out for its rich cultural and architectural heritage.

Among its tourist attractions is the iconic riverside promenade that lines the Río Negro, offering panoramic views, recreational areas, and a wide range of outdoor activities. Additionally, Mauá Castle, located a few kilometers from the city, is one of the most valuable historical landmarks. This manor-style building dates back to the mid-19th century and was purchased by the Baron of Mauá, whose business ventures left a lasting mark on the region. Today, part of its facilities houses the Alejandro Berro Paleontological Museum and an art gallery, contributing to the cultural life of Mercedes.

The city also stands out in sports and cultural fields, hosting festivals and events that celebrate both the country’s folklore and its modern spirit. The convergence of its historical heritage, the ambiance of its city center, and the diversity of its tourist offerings make Mercedes a must-visit destination.

Beyond Mercedes

In addition to Mercedes and Mauá Castle, Soriano offers numerous tourist attractions sure to delight visitors. Villa Soriano, for example, preserves its historical essence as the first settlement founded in Uruguayan territory, with streets steeped in tradition and emblematic sites such as its colonial chapel and historic dock. Tourism in the department is further enri-

ched by the natural beauty of its riverbanks, its outdoor spaces, and the hospitality of its people.

Notable Figures

The department is home to notable figures in culture and the arts. For example, the renowned visual artist Pedro Blanes Viale, whose

work has gained national and international recognition, is a symbol of Mercedarian creativity and has made a significant contribution to Uruguay’s artistic landscape. Likewise, painter Carlos Federico Sáez, whose work also reflects the identity and sensitivity of Soriano’s people, is remembered as one of the great masters of Urugua-

yan art. The influence of these and other artists not only enriches the cultural heritage but also strengthens the identity of a region deeply connected to artistic creation and development.

Agriculture

Agriculture is a major pillar of the Uruguayan economy. We are in the department of Soriano, which has a strong agricultural identity, where livestock farming is associated with most agricultural properties. This results in the formation of mixed farming-livestock systems, producing wheat, barley, canola, soybeans, corn, sunflower, sorghum, forage seeds, beef, and dairy cattle.

The Federated Agricultural Cooperatives (CAF) play a significant role in agriculture, contributing between 15% and 25% of the production of soy, wheat, and barley, as well as having an important presence in the production and commercialization of sunflower and corn.

Climate

With a warm and humid climate (17.5 °C average temperature and 1050 mm of annual rainfall), rainwater is channeled through a dense drainage network that flows into the Negro and San Salvador Rivers. Combined with one of the highest CONEAT Index ratings in the country and soils with more than 40 cm of topsoil (Horizon A), this enables Soriano to maintain one of Uruguay’s best farming and livestock production systems.

Sustainable soil practices and the application of cutting-edge technologies result in the highest quality and yield harvests in Uruguay. The dominant crops are wheat, soy, barley, sunflower, corn, and sorghum. The area dedicated to agriculture includes 50,000 hectares of rotational land and accounts for 46.9% of the total soybean acreage in the country.

The department also has a strong livestock sector, excelling in cattle breeding and fattening, and is home to the best Corriedale-Merilin sheep in Uruguay. In beekeeping, Soriano produces over 40% of the nation’s honey.

Expoactiva

Expoactiva Nacional is “the largest showcase of the agricultural industry in the coun-

try,” according to Arturo Wilson, president of the Soriano Rural Association (ARS). In 2025, the expo gathered more than 300 companies and 700 brands on a 93-hectare site located in the Bizcocho area, at kilometer 252 on Route 2. This year, the focus was placed on education, technology, and market expansion as key pillars for the sector’s development.

In Summary

Soriano is a land of harmonious contrasts, where Indigenous roots, colonial heritage, and the power of independence converge to tell a unique and essential story in the formation of today’s Uruguay. It is, without a doubt, a place that invites people to rediscover the nation’s origins and enjoy an identity rooted in tradition and enriched by the passage of time.

INTERVIEW WITH DIEGO PARODI

“I

believe it’s very important to improve the agro ecosystem”

At the 2025 edition of Show Rural Coopavel, we spoke with Diego Parodi, president and founder of Spraytec. The company’s latest developments, the launch of TractusCarbono, future projects, and short-term global vision were the main topics of focus. The idiosyncrasies of a successful individual.

By: Juan Carlos Grasa – Director of Horizonte A

Diego, tell us about Spraytec’s current moment in terms of launches and innovations at a global level.

Right now at SPRAYTEC we’re focused on producing new technologies and products, with the aim of launching them simultaneously across all the markets where we operate. One of the developments we’ve been working on since 2017 is Tractus Carbono, a soil conditioner technology that provides enzymes.

What is the role of those enzymes?

They’re responsible for regenerating the soil, accelerating the recovery of organic matter along with carbon and other key elements that are currently lacking—since over the last few decades the only things added to soil have been phosphorus, nitrogen, and potassium.

And that’s not enough…

No, because we’ve neglected some fundamental elements like magnesium, sulfur, zinc, boron—which is important for cell division and flower quality—and calcium. We’ve been experiencing soil acidification, partly due to agriculture with little or no livestock rotation or other complementary activities. This is an innovative product—it helps fix carbon in the soil and reduces the greenhouse effect.

Have you presented this product here at the fair?

Yes, we had a presentation here by Dr. Julio Fagliani, who developed the technology along with Embrapa, and he gave us a thorough explanation of how the improvements occur across various aspects, going into great depth and detail. The results are compelling.

What’s the product application-to-yield relationship?

Even though it’s a soil conditioner, we expected to see an agronomic response and a return on investment over 3 to 4 years—but the results have surprised us, even in the first year of application. We had a return in the first year, with results in Brazil showing an increase of 5 to 8 sacks per hectare—without even talking about the higher-end cases. So we’re talking about 300 to 500, even 600 extra kilos per hectare with an application of just 20 to 25 kilos per hectare, whether broadcasted or mixed with conventional fertilizers. It contains macronutrients, micronutrients, plus all the contributions from organic acids and enzymes, as I mentioned before.

Where are you at in the process? When will it be commercially available?

In Argentina, we got the registration recently, and we already have the product ready

to begin trials—especially with those forward-thinking producers who are always open to new technologies. So this year we’ll be using it and seeing its results.

And considering the deficiencies that Tractus Carbono addresses, where in the world do you think it will be easiest to market, based on producer needs?

At first, we thought it would be especially useful for the Cerrado and all of northern Brazil, where you need to build soil fertility and organic matter from scratch—and we had great responses there. But we were also surprised to see great results even in very well-corrected soils. For example, at the Coamo experimental farm, which has 50 years of intensive correction and fertilization, we still saw increases of 6 to 7 sacks per hectare (about 300 to 450 kg/ha).

What about in the United States?

We’re also working with the product in the U.S., where the soils have significant deficiencies in magnesium, sulfur, and in some areas, calcium. So it’s being well received. The enzyme component that breaks down organic matter is especially important there, as they have major issues with corn stubble—it needs to be degraded. So we’re conducting promising trials to see how these enzymes help break down this organic residue, especially in places like Nebraska, where they grow corn-oncorn under irrigation. We’re seeing very positive results.

So it works for both no-till and conventional planting—it’s not soiltype specific, it’s global.

Exactly, I see it as a global solution. Spraytec developed enzymes that break down organic matter—three essential enzymes—and then there’s all the work on

replenishing nutrients that are lacking in soils, whether they’re new or old.

There’s a common issue in agriculture where we extract nutrients and don’t always replace them. We focus only on two or three macronutrients and forget the rest. That’s where Tractus Carbono performs very well, both in older and newer soils.

On a company level, we’ve spent some days here on the Brazilian tour with Argentine producers and distributors, and there’s a recurring theme among those I spoke with: the company’s humanity and sense of fraternity.

Yes, that’s because Spraytec’s project is about the journey—it’s about enjoying the path, not just reaching the end goal. So what do we care about? Each individual’s personal journey. We want every member of the company to be professionally successful.

“Spraytec’s project is about the journey—enjoying the journey, not just reaching a goal.”

When we focus on each Spraytec member’s personal, professional, and financial growth, we create a different kind of work environment. And what is a company? It’s a group of people with a shared goal. If those people are successful, the company will be successful as a result. And if they’re happy, they transmit that same happiness and optimism to our clients and friends.

So it’s like a reverse trickle-down effect—each person succeeds, and that makes the company thrive.

Exactly. I always think my mission in this world is to help everyone close to me have a better quality of life, so they can give their families a better life and a better education for their children.

I want mothers and fathers to feel proud of being useful and able to improve their family’s lives. I like the idea of building a system with no ceiling—each person sets their own growth limit within Spraytec.

Last question, Diego. How do you see the short-term future of the ecosystem we’re part of?

I think it’s crucial to improve the ecosystem. Right now, food production is meeting demand, so international prices are low, and that’s going to last for a while— this won’t change overnight unless there’s a major crop failure in one of the leading producer countries. I believe this is a time of natural selection among producers and companies—only the efficient ones will remain.

This is a normal cycle that repeats every few years.

How does that translate to the agricultural sector?

We may go through another two, three, or four years of tight prices. So we’ll need to be extremely efficient in production and very attentive to how we market. Then, perhaps in three or four years, agriculture will be back at 100%. We have to understand that agriculture doesn’t depend on the economy of each country—governments can complicate things more or less, but it’s a global business. Agriculture is, and always will be, a bubble within each country.

Thank you very much, Diego.

DRONES Are We Ready to Take on the Challenge?

The use of drones in large-scale Argentine agriculture seems to be here to stay. They emerged offering a wide range of uses, such as field mapping, crop monitoring, and data collection, among others.

By: By: Agr. Eng. (Spec.) Facundo Menta

The rise of these unmanned aerial vehicles goes hand in hand with the digitalization of agriculture. As expected, their functions within the production system are experiencing exponential growth. The application of crop protection products via drones is a practice that has already taken root in various parts of Latin America. In Argentina, we have vast experience using drones in intensive crops such as grapes and citrus. The recent breakthrough, however, seems to be the rapid adoption of this new (or not-so-new) spraying method for treating issues in the most common extensive crops. Drones offer us an efficient and precise alternative for applying chemical/biological products and fertilizers.

Despite their limited autonomy and payload capacity, spraying drones offer several advantages: precision, efficiency, input savings, independence from terrain topography, operational safety, and lower environmental impact. But for all these benefits to be realized, we obviously need a deep understanding of how they operate. The application of crop protection products in general involves a large number of factors that must be considered in order to achieve safe and effective treatments, and this technology is no exception. Being aware from the very beginning of the variables we need to manage—so we can deliver the active ingredient precisely to the target—seems to be the key to success.

Pesticide Application

The first thing I’d like to remind readers is this: what does it actually mean to “apply a crop protection product” to control a weed, pest, or disease that threatens production? I’ll bring in this definition:

“Applying a pesticide encompasses the use of all scientific knowledge that ensures the correct placement of a biologically active product on the target, in the necessary amount, in an economical way, with minimal contamination of surrounding areas” (Matuo et al., 2001).

And as you can see, I highlight three key points that form what I call the “triangle for proper calibration”:

• The product(s) to be applied—especially their es-

“The need for a qualified technician behind the technology is essential in order to establish efficient and safe calibration settings”

sence or nature.

• The location of the target, that is, its level of exposure.

• The environmental conditions during the application.

That’s where a key question arises: do we measure and record the different parameters that define environmental quality at the time of spraying?

A thorough analysis of this “triangle for proper calibration,” conducted before any treatment, will guide us to consciously calibrate the equipment in use.

Process Stages

Let’s not forget that the task of controlling crop threats is a process—and like any process, it involves different stages. A proper application process starts with having equipment that is in good condition, CLEAN, and correctly calibrated (even if that sounds repetitive). The

process continues with preparing the tank mix of crop protection products and adjuvants, always paying close attention to the quality of the water being used, following the correct order of product loading, and avoiding incompatibilities.

The next step is the atomization of the spray mix and the release of droplets into the environment for their journey toward the target—where the impact and subsequent droplet deposition will occur—ultimately allowing the active ingredient to enter and trigger the desired biological effect.

This brings us, finally, to the specifics of the technology we are focusing on today. Breaking down its key aspects—so we can assess how well we can manage its variables—will be the starting point for making proper use of it and, most importantly, preserving it over time.

Below, I will outline the basic aspects that must be ad-

1. Key points to consider for adjusting toward the appropriate spraying technique.

dressed in order to carry out efficient and safe work. While there’s a lot to dive into for each of these items, laying them out will help us stay organized and set priorities when planning an application:

• Due to its limited payload capacity, this technology requires working with low spray volumes per area, so

Figure

understanding how to manage this properly is essential.

• Application will be done using fine to medium droplets (not larger) to ensure adequate coverage, depending on the application rate, the target’s exposure, and the systemic level of the products used.

• In line with the previous point, we must be aware

that we’ll necessarily be working with low-micron droplet sizes, which increases the potential risk of drift. The call is to address this issue proactively, rather than worry about it afterward. Monitoring environmental conditions is vital to identify safe application windows.

• Compatibility tests at scale become crucial when working with stable mixtures. In this regard, replacing formulations that require intense agitation and using high-quality dispersants becomes essential.

• The use of anti-evaporant adjuvants and those that help “shape” the median droplet size is key.

• Regulating the flight speed is critical for managing the “vortex effect” in coordination with flight height and swath width.

• As with any pesticide ap-

plication, we must avoid operating during “zero wind” conditions, as the likelihood of thermal inversion will be high.

Closing

As with all other application methods, the need for a qualified technician behind the technology is essential in order to establish efficient and safe calibration settings— ones that safeguard production, the environment, and the tools we rely on to manage crop threats. Measuring the outcome of our applications is the way forward. Measurement, as always, gives us the opportunity to adjust and improve.

In the world of spraying drones—just like with any other available application method—this will be the starting point for moving toward the goal of being both efficient and sustainable in the treatments we carry out within today’s agricultural systems.

“Despite their limited autonomy and payload capacity, spraying drones offer several advantages”

Figure 2. Each of the different stages that make up the complete spraying process.

Digital Transformation for Agronomists: Adapt or Fall Behind

By: Mariano Larrazabal

Consultor en agromarketing digital y social media – Bialar.

@AgroBialar

Imagine an agricultural sector where decisions are made in real time, based on precise data, optimizing resources and maximizing production. Today, that future is already a reality thanks to digital transformation.

But are we ready to adapt to this new era? How can agronomists not only stay relevant but also lead this change?

The agricultural sector is undergoing an unprecedented technological revolution. The convergence of artificial intelligence (AI), big data, the Internet of Things (IoT), and automa-

tion is redefining production, commercial, and logistical models.

This transformation doesn’t only affect large agribusiness corporations—it impacts every agronomist who must evolve alongside the digital ecosystem.

It’s not just about using new tools, but about developing a digital mindset and adopting agile methodologies that allow professionals to interpret data, anticipate problems, and optimize decision-making.

Digital transformation offers an unprecedented opportunity to improve productivity, efficiency, and sustainability in agriculture. Professionals who master it will gain a decisive competitive advantage in the job market.

Change is inevitable, and preparation is key. In this article, we will explore the technological trends revolutionizing agriculture, their impact on the agronomist profession, and how to prepare for this new paradigm. If you want to lead in the digital age, read on and discover how to become an Agronomist 4.0.

An Agronomist Must Be Competent to Be Competitive

The role of the agronomist has evolved into a key figure in the implementation of digital strategies. Today, in addition to technical knowledge in agronomy, it is essential to develop skills in data analysis, modeling of productive scenarios,

In digital regenerative agriculture, biotechnology is applied to crop improvement and the complete automation of production processes.

and specialized software management. The ability to integrate digital tools into decision-making processes increases both the profitability and sustainability of agribusinesses.

The AgTech ecosystem is revolutionizing the sector, encouraging the adoption of disruptive technologies to improve operational efficiency and production resilience in the face of climate change. Digitalization not only optimizes processes, it also enables new business models based on data and collaborative economies.

Key Facts about Digital Transformation in Agriculture:

• The global AgTech market is projected to reach $30 billion by 2025.

• Over 75% of agricultural companies plan to digitize their operations within the next decade.

• IoT adoption in agriculture can boost productivity by 20% and reduce operational costs by 15%.

Digital Transformation of Talent

The challenge isn’t just the integration of technology—it’s also the training and adaptation of human capital. The sector needs hybrid profiles that combine agronomic knowledge with advanced digital skills.

Among the most in-demand competencies are:

• Management of GIS software and geospatial analysis.

• Programming and automation of agricultural processes.

• Predictive modeling and machine learning applied to agriculture.

• Management of IoT platforms for crop and livestock monitoring.

The Digital Transformation of the Agronomist and Their Network

The agronomist no longer operates in isolation, but within an interconnected digital ecosystem. Collaborative platforms and professional networks specialized in AgTech enable knowledge exchange and foster innovation in the sector. The ability to work in multidisciplinary teams and adapt to agile methodologies is key to professional success.

Real-time access to information is a critical factor in agricultural decision-making. From input management to harvest planning, digitalization has redefined workflows and relationships with clients. Specialization in emerging technologies such as AI, IoT, and blockchain will be essential for standing out in the job market.

Key Milestones in the Digital Transformation of Agriculture

1. Agricultural Automation: Implementation of autonomous machinery, monitoring drones, and precision robotics to optimize agricultural tasks.

2. Big Data and Predictive Analytics: Machine learning algorithms that enhance agronomic management by interpreting agroclimatic and soil data in real time.

3. IoT in Agriculture: Smart sensors that provide data on soil moisture, weather conditions, and crop phenological status.

4. Blockchain in Traceability: Use of decentralized records to ensure transparency, food safety, and quality certifications throughout the agri-food value chain.

5. Agricultural E-commerce: Digital platforms facilitating direct trade between producers, distributors, and global consumers.

6. Precision Agriculture: Integration of GIS systems, remote sensing, and agroclimatic simulation models to optimize productivity and reduce environmental impact.

Analytical Reflection

Digital transformation is no longer optional—it has become a fundamental pillar of agricultural develop-

ment. The convergence of agronomic knowledge with emerging technologies will enhance the sector’s competitiveness and prepare it to successfully face future challenges.

For agronomists, the key will lie in their ability to adapt, innovate, and lead the digital evolution of agriculture.

The technological evolution of the agricultural sector is irreversible. Current trends point to the consolidation of models based on digital regenerative agriculture,

biotechnology for crop improvement, and full automation of production processes.

Data shows that the adoption of digital technology has increased agribusiness profitability by 35% over the past five years, with a growing trend driven by global demand for efficiency and sustainability.

It is essential that agronomists and agricultural entrepreneurs understand that digitalization is not just an investment in infrastructure, but a transfor-

mation in how operations are run and decisions are made. The customization of digital solutions, supply chain optimization through blockchain, and climate risk management via artificial intelligence will be key differentiators in the coming decade.

In the end, those in the sector who embrace this change and integrate it into their strategic vision will not only ensure their competitiveness, but will also lead the new era of intelligent and sustainable agricultural production.