Describe the Issue or Situation. The Kentucky Corn Growers C.O.R.E. Farmer Program aims to: deliver classroom-style instructional learning, expand peer networks, and grain perspective from other business endeavors and learn by seeing. Each cohort targets about 20 early-career producers and involves learning sessions over about 2.5 years. CORE graduates are eligible to take an international trip to learn about farms and farming from a different perspective. In March 2024, C.O.R.E. graduates visited Brazil. We visited farms in Parana state where no-till began about 30 years ago. Those early adopters visited University of Kentucky and hosted our predecessors over the decades. We also visited farms in Mato Grosso state. 

Describe the Outreach or Educational Program Response (and Partners, if applicable).

Our farmers observed corn and soybean farming at a much larger scale and a lower per-acre yield. We learned about their climate, the pest pressures, their economic pressures and their governmental pressures on agriculture. They learned about how grain is harvested, dried and transported. In general, Brazil is a harsher climate for corn and soybean, but their number of acres make them competitive globally. They can expand even more acres, but expansion will be slower than some project. Our farmers enjoyed seeing farming on that scale. 

Provide the Number and Description(s) of Participants/Target Audience.

There were 20 CORE graduates on this trip, plus the two full-time employees of the Kentucky Corn Growers and me. 

Provide a Statement of Outcomes or Program Impact. Please note that the outcomes statement must use evaluation data to describe the change(s) that occurred in individuals, groups, families, businesses, or in the community because of the program/outreach.

The Kentucky farmers changed their view on Brazil agriculture after the visit, coming away with admiration for their management, but a realization that increasing acres and increasing yields are very challenging in Brazil. Brazil crop production directly affect our markets in the US. The Kentucky farmers have a better appreciation for roads and public services in the US. The Kentucky farmers have a better understanding of one of our largest global competitors for grain.