By Teresa Bailey/Pima Town Councilmember
CIUDAD OBREGON, MEXICO – The Project CENTRL Leadership Program, under the Arizona Center for Rural Leadership, continues to cultivate passionate and educated leaders who provide a voice for and serve rural communities in Arizona. This month, Class 33 embarked on an enlightening five-day journey to Ciudad Obregón, Mexico, where they experienced firsthand the power of leaders learning from leaders.
During this trip, Project CENTRL leaders emphasized the importance of maintaining and strengthening the collaboration between Arizona and Sonora. They recognized their responsibility to protect the progress made in fostering relationships and working together for the common good of both regions. This collaboration is crucial for shaping communities through education and water management.
One of the highlights of the trip was a visit to the Technological Institute of Sonora (ITSON), where the group learned more about higher education in Mexico. ITSON graciously hosted the group for the week, providing valuable insights into the educational landscape of Sonora.
The group also visited the Soles Shrimp farm, managed by the Olea family, which showcased sustainable shrimp farming practices. This visit highlighted the shared challenges and innovative solutions in agriculture between the two regions.
Additional visits included the Ceibe La Cuchilla farm, greenhouse, and packing plant, the Ciano Agricultural Experiment Station, and Benjamin Esquer’s greenhouses and packing plant. These visits provided a comprehensive view of Sonora’s agricultural practices and innovations.
The group toured the CUDDEC ITSON Community Center and the Yaqui Valley Irrigation District Headquarters, gaining a deeper understanding of community support and water management issues. Sonora, like many parts of the world, faces significant water shortages. The growers in the Yaqui River Valley have experienced water delivery cuts to nearly zero for the first time since 2003. These cuts have forced them to prioritize crops that employ the greatest number of people, support communities in avoiding drug issues, honor native cultural roots, and feed the growing population.
The visit to the Norman Borlaug Institute, where the first green revolution began, underscored the importance of agricultural innovation in addressing these challenges. The institute is credited with saving one billion lives through its advancements.
The collaboration between Sonora and Arizona extends beyond agriculture. By creating jobs and fostering a sense of pride in their communities, Sonoran farmers help reduce immigration to the USA. They frequently share their practices with Arizona growers, often traveling to Arizona to present their methods and innovations.
Logistics also play a crucial role in this collaboration, ensuring that products reach the USA quickly and provide consumers with fresher options. This partnership not only benefits the economies of both regions but also strengthens cultural and social ties.
Class 33’s visit to Ciudad Obregón, which included local leader Teresa Bailey, was a testament to the power of collaboration and the shared commitment to building a better future for the people of Arizona and Sonora. Through education, sustainable practices, and mutual support, these leaders are shaping communities and fostering a brighter future for all.
If you would like to learn more about this public-private partnership with the University of Arizona Cooperative Extension, visit www.centrl.org for more information.
