By Scout Nelson
Nebraska LEAD 43 Fellows recently completed a two-week International Study and Travel Seminar in Morocco, Portugal, and Spain. The program was held from January 6 to 20, 2026, focused on global agriculture, leadership development, and food systems.
During the visit to Morocco, Fellows examined farming in dry climates. They toured citrus and olive farms and met with researchers to understand water conservation and irrigation methods. The experience highlighted how countries manage limited water resources while maintaining food production.
In Portugal, the group explored crop and livestock farms, dairy operations, and cork production. They also visited the Alqueva Multipurpose Project, Europe’s largest strategic water reserve. This project demonstrated advanced irrigation systems, renewable energy use, and long-term resource planning.
The seminar concluded in Spain, where Nebraska LEAD 43 Fellows studied cooperative grain systems, citrus production, olive oil processing, fisheries, and beef cattle operations. They also met with officials from Spain’s Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food to understand agricultural policy and livestock management.
Throughout the journey, the Fellows participated in cultural tours and leadership discussions. These activities helped them understand how agriculture connects with government policy, markets, and community development around the world.
The Nebraska LEAD Program is a two-year leadership development program for individuals involved in the production of agriculture and agribusiness. It operates under the Nebraska Agricultural Leadership Council in partnership with the University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources.
Click here for a list of Nebraska LEAD 43 Fellows by hometown who took part in the 2026 international travel seminar to Morocco, Portugal, and Spain.
Nebraska LEAD 43 Fellows also produced a video series about their experience. The videos are available on the Nebraska LEAD Program’s Facebook page and on UNL’s MediaHub at https://mediahub.unl.edu/channels/28041.
Applications for Nebraska LEAD 45, beginning in fall 2026, are now open. More information is available at lead.unl.edu.
Photo Credit: nebraska-extension
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