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Corn, or maize as
it is known in much of the world, originated in the Americas. Like all
crops it was bred by farmers over thousands of years. It is not a product
of nature but rather a product of the ingenuity of farmers. Finding the
best seeds and preserving them for future generations is one of the primary
jobs of the International Center for Wheat and Maize improvement, located
on the outskirts of Mexico City. |
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The city of Oaxaca in south central Mexico has a rich history that
goes back well before the European conquest. Rising above the city, the
great Myztec fortress of Monte Alban gives testament to the great civilizations
that flourished in this region. |
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Mrs. Pauline Ortega farms on land that has been in her family for
hundreds of years. Now she is working with researchers to find and preserve
the best of the ancient corn varieties that developed in her part of Mexico
near Oaxaca. |
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The International Center for Wheat and Maize Improvement (CIMMYT
is the acronym in Spanish) holds the world's premiere collection of corn
and wheat germplasm. Modern, refrigerated storage vaults store many thousands
of varieties. Today, in addition to the static, cold storage, scientists
are working with farmers to preserve seeds dynamically. |
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In Mexico the corn tortilla, made fresh while you wait, is the daily
staple. |
