Students will learn about the agriculture, food and culture of Portugal and experience the rich and fascinating history of one of the oldest countries in Europe. Students will tour the country to visit animal and crop production farms and industries where they will have interactions with local crop and animal production experts, researchers, and business people. Highlights of the course include visits to sheep, cattle and Iberic pig production farms, where students will learn about the different animal breeds, their diet, reproduction, as well as processing and marketing of meat, cheese and wool products. Students will also visit vineyards and wine cellars, olive orchards and olive oil mills, cork oak savannah and cork processing facilities. The course also includes visits to a large dam that has had a major impact in water accessibility and agricultural production in the region, and research institute for sustainable fisheries. Students will experience the regional gastronomy, culture and history of Portugal throughout the course and during visits to castles, monuments and historical towns.
This program was last offered in spring 2022. It is tentatively scheduled for 2026.