Erick Alejandro Magdaleno Quijada
Erick Alejandro Magdaleno Quijada proudly carries on a cherished family legacy in agriculture as the fourth generation to do so in the San Domingo Valley. His journey is deeply intertwined with that of his grandfather, Don Florencio Magdaleno Razo, and his father, Celestino Magdaleno Bañales, who lovingly tended to the land and cared for livestock. Their hard work and dedication created a bond with the earth that Erick felt compelled to continue. Today, he lovingly manages agricultural plot number 25, affectionately known as Agrícola 25, where he focuses on growing alfalfa and nurturing not just the land but also his family’s traditions.
A typical day in the field starts very early, depending on the crop’s needs and weather conditions. “Sometimes I have to be here at 5 in the morning, other times at 6, or I may come later due to paperwork at the village office,” he explains. Along with his assistants—who handle cutting, baling, and packing the alfalfa—Erick supervises the work and repairs machinery as needed. The alfalfa cultivation follows a regular cycle: the first cut is made after roughly two months, and subsequent cuts occur about once a month. Overall, there are between 10 and 11 cuts each year. However, in colder weather, the intervals can be extended to 35 or 38 days.
Erick emphasizes that his decision to pursue farming was a personal choice. After finishing his university studies, he chose to continue the family tradition, attracted to growing crops like maize, wheat, alfalfa, sorghum, and chickpeas, as well as his love for animals. He also highlights the strong influence of his father, who, at 82 years old, still shares stories about his own father. Erick describes these stories as a true legacy, stating, “My father is like a book to me. He just turned 82, and all the stories he has told me about my grandfather are wonderful.”
He recognizes the challenges in trade, especially concerning water. “The future of water is quite complex, not just here in the San Domingo Valley, but globally,” he states, stressing the need to protect this vital resource for ongoing farming success.
Erick Alejandro Magdaleno Quijada shows the passion and dedication of multiple generations by upholding his family’s farming tradition. He tackles the modern challenges of rural life while inspiring others to appreciate land, hard work, and family heritage.
