Week 5 - Thursday – Saturday Morning:

Thursday - All the driving we have done in the last two days led to a spectacular day. We observed two large rivers in Brazil, Panara and Iguacu The day started with a visit to the Itaipu Dam. It is the world’s largest hydroelectric plant in terms of electricity generation and extremely impressive because of its sheer magnitude. It is 5 miles across the top of the dam and 65 stories high. This year’s increased amount of rainfall also added a dimension that most would not even think about. The dam is owned 50/50 by Brazil and Paraguay and shares 50/50 in the production of the electricity. What Paraguay doesn’t use Brazil buys. There are 20 generators to run the hydroelectric dam and three spillways each of different sizes. The two largest spillways were running because of the increased rainfall. To see the water pushed out off the spillway to avoid erosion is magnificent. The dam generates approximately 90% of the electricity for Paraguay and 20% for Brazil. The cities along the river have improved significantly because of money put into the cities as the dam was built. We were able to stand on top of the dam as well as go inside the dam to observe one of its generators in action.

From there we went to Iguacu Falls. I lived about 20 minutes from Niagara Falls and have visited there several times. My anticipation of seeing this natural wonder was great as I had seen several pictures but had never been there. Words cannot describe this breathtaking sight. There are 19 large waterfalls and some 200 waterfalls in total. One picture on the camera could not span the total falls, nor could two. It took about three to get most of it. We saw the waterfalls from every dimension, on top, level and below so those who took pictures have several and each picture has its own personality. Everyone will be excited to show what they observed. The area around the dam is used for recreation, environmental protection, wildlife preservation, reforestation, water education and obviously tourist attractions. After the falls we stopped at a point where the Parana River and Iguacu River meet. This also is the spot where Brazil, Argentina and Paraguay intersect. We were able to see the landmarks for each country just standing in one spot. We then drove a couple of hours. The evening was spent having supper at the mall, swimming and just catching up on journals or e-mail.

Friday – We drove to Curitiba, Panara and visited another farm set up by three families located in a gorgeous area. It just seems that no matter where we go you can look off into the horizon and see hills and valleys. It also seems we are on the top looking out. They grow corn and soybeans and have some cows. They are practicing no till and have Round-Up Ready beans. It has just been recent that the state of Panara has approved Round-Up Ready beans. They produce seed corn and are in the process of building a new facility. Once built they could see themselves as strong leaders in the cooperative. The family was so welcoming and so excited to tell us about what they are doing. They had as many questions for us as we had for them. They were so proud to show us the clearing of the land for their “facility”.


From there we went to a farm show much like Farm Science Review. It was not open yet but there was enough in place for us to get a feel for what resources are available to those involved in production agriculture in Panara. Several research plots demonstrated use of chemicals, seed types, etc. while advanced pieces of equipment were also on exhibit. The students had a great time relaxing in the sun, walking, browsing and climbing on equipment. Then we left about 3:30 pm for our long, long ride home. Piracicaba here we come!! Antonio’s, we should be there in time for breakfast!!! We arrived at 7:00 am.