Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Inc. is reminding growers that domestic and export contracts for OPTIMUM* High Oil Grain will become available on September 1, 1999. The company is strongly
recommending interested growers contact their local Pioneer sales professional this summer to discuss available opportunities for contracting and delivery.

"Last year, more than 300,000 acres were committed within the first 48 hours after the contracts became available," says Linda Wyss, product manager, corn feed traits at Pioneer Hi-Bred International. "We expect there will be more than one million acres available for export and domestic contracts for the 2000 growing season. However, we anticipate even greater grower
interest in contracts this year because of the stronger demand for value-enhanced grains and expected low commodity prices.

"Now is the time for farmers to assess their storage capacity and how high oil corn may work in their crop rotation. This summer also will be a good opportunity to attend field days to evaluate Pioneer® brand hybrids that will meet specifications for these contracts," Wyss adds.

The TOPCROSS* Grain Production System from Optimum Quality Grains, L.L.C. will be used on nearly two million total acres of corn ground. Pioneer has six high-performing TC BLEND products that qualify for the domestic and export contracts, plus one single-cross product suitable for farmer-feeders. Growers can receive up to a 25-cent-per-bushel premium over market price for the OPTIMUM High Oil Grain grown under contract because of the higher oil content, higher total energy and higher levels of quality protein.

Contact Local Pioneer Sales Professional for Latest Contract Opportunities

Export contracts are offered in areas where river or rail transportation is readily available while domestic contacts are typically offered in areas where end users have facilities or feed mills. There are a limited number of acres available for both contract types in any area. All contracting is done via the Internet.

"Pioneer sales professionals have the electronic tools that will allow them to provide customers with details about contracts available in a specific area and updates on the latest contracting opportunities," says Wyss. "They will also be able to write contracts for customers using the Internet. These are several steps Pioneer is taking to ensure we meet our customers' needs."

In addition, Pioneer sales professionals will receive timely electronic updates on contracting opportunities and changes from a contracting specialist Pioneer is adding to its staff.

Selected Pioneer Reps Receive Extensive Training

To provide customers an even greater level of service, 450 Pioneer sales representatives in Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska and Ohio were selected to attend an extensive training program in export contracting and TOPCROSS technology.

Participants receive in-depth training on electronic decision-making tools, which will allow them to evaluate the economic viability of growing value-enhanced grains in their customers’ operations.

"This training is unique to the industry and represents Pioneer’s commitment to helping our customers be financially successful in agriculture," says Wyss. "These selected sales representatives are designated as Pioneer’s contracting experts and will be available to consult with interested growers. We are dedicated to investing in the resources that will help our sales professionals bring the greatest value to our customers."

Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Inc., (NYSE-PHB) is the world's leading supplier of agricultural genetics and is the leading developer and integrator of agricultural technology. Headquartered in Des Moines, Iowa, Pioneer develops, produces, and markets a full line of seeds, grain and forage additives and services to grain and livestock producers, grain processors, and other customers worldwide.

*Registered trademarks of Optimum Quality Grains, L.L.C., Des Moines, Iowa.
®Registered trademark of Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Inc.

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