Agriculture
Agriculture is a key part of our business. We started by growing feed for our cattle, good nutrition is vital to get the most out of our investment in genetics. Our experience with traditional crops began with grain production, and later evolved to seed production, which is a very labor-intensive practice with great impact to local economy.
Crops we grow
Most of our experience is with growing traditional crops, such as white corn, yellow corn, and red beans, for human consumption and for seed. We experienced with non-traditional crops but decided to stay with corn, sorghum, and beans, because it better integrates with our cattle business.
Our sustainable practices
Climate change has severely affected crop yields for our farm. In an effort to maximize water usage, we’ve implemented a drip irrigation system which allows us to deliver nutrients directly to our crops, minimize evaporation, and guarantee better yields.
Social Impact
At Haciendas Buenavista y Ocotales, we strive to positively impact our local economy by creating jobs for Hondurans in our area. Through agricultural activities we generate a need for labor, making an effort to employ women, who are often the breadwinners of their household.
How agriculture works with breeding
Crops like corn and sorghum are used to obtain grain, and also to make silage for our total mixed ration (TMR). Both crop residues can be converted into round bales and later be also used in a TMR. Agriculture is necessary to feed our cattle during the dry season, and supplement feed for the rest of the year.