Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Inc. is hosting an open house today at its new sorghum research center in Manhattan, Kan. Completed in late 1999, the Manhattan facility is the center for sorghum research throughout Kansas, Nebraska and western Missouri.

"Our Kansas location is strategic,'' says Dr. Yilma Kebede, Pioneer research coordinator.
"Because there are various adaptation zones represented around Manhattan, we can study
product performance under various conditions.''

Research in western Kansas focuses on fast-drying and early hybrids with biotype I greenbug
resistance. Research in central Kansas focuses on hybrids of medium maturity with sooty stripe
resistance and post-freezing tolerance. Research in eastern Kansas, Nebraska and western
Missouri focuses on medium to full-season hybrids with sooty stripe and greenbug resistance, as
well as post-freezing tolerance.

"We strive to meet growers' needs and expectations for profitable products through research,''
says Dr. Hugo Zorrilla, sorghum research manager, Manhattan, Kan. "By exchanging germplasm
and expertise with their colleagues worldwide, Pioneer sorghum researchers in Manhattan are
striving to more quickly develop sorghum hybrids with greater yield potential under growing
conditions unique to major sorghum production areas.''

Through contracts with local farmers, Pioneer researchers based in Manhattan annually plant 60
acres of yield tests in 12 field locations. They also contract a 30-acre irrigated nursery for
breeding and inbred development.

To keep up with seasonal demands associated with sorghum breeding and new product
development, four full-time and as many as eight part-time sorghum researchers work in the
Manhattan center.

"Pioneer has conducted sorghum research for nearly half a century,'' adds Zorrilla. "Our new
research center in Manhattan is an example of Pioneer's dedication to deliver the most advanced
sorghum genetics available to farmers.''

Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Inc., a DuPont business, is the world's leading developer and
supplier of advanced plant genetics to farmers worldwide. With headquarters in Des Moines,
Iowa, Pioneer develops, produces and markets a full line of top-quality seeds and forage and
grain additives and provides services to customers in nearly 70 countries. DuPont is a science
company, delivering science-based solutions that make a difference in people's lives in food and
nutrition, health care, apparel, home and construction, electronics and transportation.

For additional company or product information, check the Pioneer worldwide Web site:
http://www.pioneer.com  

Company news release
N2995