Participatory Maize Breeding in Portugal The VASO project in Portugal has conducted participatory maize breeding for over 30 years using farmer selection and breeder selection. Through multiple cycles of selection, the 'Pigarro' population was improved for traits like yield and fasciation. Trials were conducted at several locations in Portugal and Iowa comparing farmer and breeder selection, finding some gains from farmer selection. Future work aims to incorporate more participatory elements from seed to consumption, studying quality, taste, and health impacts of genetic diversity. The project emphasizes multidisciplinary collaboration between farmers, breeders, and other institutions to improve maize adapted to local conditions.