Today, Monsanto Company officially announced plans for a new corn breeding facility in Blair, Nebraska. The site will be Monsanto’s first location in Washington County and will join other Monsanto sites already firmly established in the state.

The site’s primary function will be to test new hybrids developed by Monsanto’s breeders, as well as hybrids that are at various stages of pre-commercial advancement in the company’s hybrid product pipeline.

The 15,000-square-foot building is scheduled to be completed by late summer 2005. The site will have a permanent staff of four, with a fluctuating seasonal staff of up to 30 individuals.

“We are excited to be able to commit to this expansion of our business in Nebraska,” said future Monsanto site manager Mike Claywell. “This new facility will be an important hub for Monsanto’s corn breeding research because of the site’s technical capabilities and strategic location.”

Blair is located on the border of Nebraska and Iowa, two of the largest states in terms of corn acres harvested. Ease of travel from Blair made it an ideal location from which to increase Monsanto’s corn testing effort in this key corn growing area. In addition, the highly regarded educational system and proximity to Omaha were also critical factors.

“Monsanto is committed to making a difference through the use of biotechnology and technical innovation,” said Ted Crosbie, Monsanto vice president of global breeding.  “This future facility in Blair makes that commitment real for the growers and food processors who are working to meet the world's growing food requirements, and for consumers who desire wholesome, plentiful food and a healthy environment. It is also further evidence of Monsanto’s commitment to Nebraska and Iowa farmers and customers.”

Monsanto Company is a leading global provider of technology-based solutions and agricultural products that improve farm productivity.