The last few days in Uruguay have been both enlightening and fun. Every farm we have been to has been so interesting. They are much like ours and yet different. The dairy systems are based mostly on pastures and they are less intensive than our systems at home. This is noted in their production levels, but, based on how they operate they are doing exceptional and you can tell they are very open to innovation. All of the employees and owners are very open to talking about their practices with us and fielding questions. Dr. Lynfranco (Bruno) has done an exceptional job of setting up these tours for us.
My favorite stop was at the Julia Ortiz farm. They raise cattle, sheep, and horses, as well as rent out pasture land to local farmers for rice. They showed us their 109 horses, and even saddled up 15 for us to take and ride with to see their hayfield. They then fed us a very generous lunch of one of their slaughtered lambs. Needless to say, we throughly enjoyed our time with them.
One thing we are all adjusting to is being on the minority end of the language barrier. It is truthfully humbling, and puts how hard it is being foreign into perspective. Another thing is how much bread and Coca Cola they drink. I am not sure if that is because we are American and they are trying to be accommodating or if they truly like it that much. We are currently in Punta Del Este, and the city is absolutely beautiful. The people are so warm and welcoming. We got up early this morning and explored the city and saw local marine life.
It’s hard to believe that we will be leaving to head home tomorrow. I have loved Uruguay and this opportunity to learn about their agricultural industry. I cannot put into words how impressed I am with how much effort INIA and the farmers are putting into research and improving their systems. With that being said though, I am sincerely ready for a glass of good sweet tea.
