EN 
PT_BR 
Last Wednesday (11), Primato Cooperativa Agroindustrial held the traditional Second-Crop Corn Field Day, which brought together cooperative members and technicians to exchange knowledge and present cultivars and technologies aimed at the second corn harvest. The event took place in the cooperative's demonstration area, next to the administrative headquarters, in Toledo (PR), and demonstrated Primato's commitment to the sustainable development of agricultural production in the region.
At a decisive moment for the sector, the Field Day has gained even more relevance given the promising scenario for the 2024/25 harvest. According to the agricultural manager of the Toledo cereal unit, Richard Kloh, the event is an essential opportunity to strengthen the connection between rural producers and market innovations. “The Field Day is more than a technology showcase. It is where we can, in close proximity to the producer, show our products, machines and implements, as well as the work of our partners. In addition, it is a space for exchange, where knowledge is multiplied and the cooperative member feels better prepared to face the challenges of the field”, highlights Kloh.
The agricultural manager also emphasizes the positive moment experienced by the sector. “Despite the climate effects that always challenge agriculture, we are experiencing a historic harvest. This shows the resilience of the Paraná producer and the importance of technical work and assistance in the field. Primato is by the cooperative member’s side at every stage, from planning to harvesting,” he adds.
A Primato member for approximately two years, Nelson Cerutti emphasizes the importance of the event promoted by the cooperative: “It is very interesting to participate, because every year new things come out and we can keep up with these changes. I can make good use of the information I receive at Field Day to improve my production.”
Historic harvest in Paraná
According to data recently released by the Department of Rural Economy (Deral) of the State Secretariat of Agriculture and Supply (Seab), the second corn harvest in Paraná is estimated at 16.15 million tons, which represents a historic milestone. The forecast, even considering possible climate losses, points to the largest corn harvest ever recorded in the state, when considering both harvests (summer and second harvest), surpassing the record of 18.1 million tons from the 2016/17 harvest.
According to information from Seab, the area planted with second-crop corn reached 2.72 million hectares, an increase of 7.4% compared to the previous cycle. The first corn crop, which was recently harvested, reached a record average productivity, with around 10.8 thousand kilos per hectare.
For Sergio Serafini, grain buyer at Primato Cooperativa, this scenario reinforces confidence in the future of the sector. “We are optimistic. Producers have been doing their homework, investing in management, technology and seeking information like the one we are sharing here today. These numbers are a reflection of this joint effort. And we, as a cooperative, have the role of being a bridge between knowledge and practice in the field”, he states.
