Independence Selected as New Site for $90-Million Seed Plant

By Dave Franzman, Reporter

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By Dave Franzman

Story Created: Apr 2, 2008 at 3:53 PM CST

Story Updated: Apr 3, 2008 at 3:36 PM CST

INDEPENDENCE- A $90-million dollar seed corn plant could go up soon on the outskirts of Independence.

Monsanto tried to locate this same facility near Waterloo. But community opposition forced the company to withdraw plans there. On Wednesday, the company announced the facility would now go to Buchanan County.

Ag suppliers in Buchanan County welcomed the news. A plant producing seed that farmers plant would mean more fertilizer and chemical business for suppliers. It would also put more money in the pockets of farmers who would raise the seed corn for Monsanto.

"It's a value added type business that over and above raising commodity type corn gives them an opportunity for more stable income, I think," said Pat Sperfslage, manager at United Agri Products.

Company officials did not disclose the exact location of the new seed corn plant that could be operating by 2010. However, officials in Buchanan County say the likeliest location is in an area near Highway 20 west of Independence with easy access to utilities and services.

Buchanan County officials told TV9 they knew there would be a fight to land Monsanto following the failure of the Waterloo plan. But the reward was definitely worth it.

Ellen Gaffney, Buchanan County Supervisor, said "they're talking to us about 47 permanent jobs. That's a lot for a community our size...a county...then they're talking 800 seasonal jobs too."

Monsanto officials want to introduce the seed corn project to neighbors at an upcoming public meeting. It will take place Wednesday, April 16th from 6:30 till 8:00 p.m. at the Heartland Acres Agribition Center.

Monsanto officials say they will announce the exact location of the proposed plant then if real estate deals are finalized.

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