Delta and Pine Land Company (NYSE: DLP) (“D&PL”), a leading commercial breeder, producer and marketer of cotton planting seed, today announced that Kenneth M. ("Kenny") Avery has been promoted to Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Assistant Secretary, effective immediately. In his new role, Mr. Avery will continue as the Company’s principal accounting officer and Treasurer, and will assume oversight responsibility for certain corporate services, including Human Resources and Safety. Mr. Avery will continue to report to Tom Jagodinski, Delta and Pine Land’s President and CEO.

Mr. Avery joined D&PL in December 2005 as Vice President of Finance, Treasurer and Assistant Secretary. Previously, Mr. Avery served as Vice President and Controller for Eagle Materials Inc. From July 1990 to May 2002, Mr. Avery served in the audit division at Arthur Andersen. He was promoted to partner in 2001.

Mr. Avery received his Masters and Bachelors of Professional Accountancy from Mississippi State University. In addition, he is a member of both the Mississippi State Society of Certified Public Accountants and the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants.

Delta and Pine Land Company is a commercial breeder, producer and marketer of cotton planting seed. Headquartered in Scott, Mississippi, with multiple offices in eight states and facilities in several foreign countries, D&PL also breeds, produces and markets soybean planting seed.