Syngenta finishes $30 million expansion in Nampa

NAMPA, Idaho (CBS 2) — Syngenta finished a $30 million expansion in Nampa Friday, introducing its new research and seed development facility.

The Trait Conversion Accelerator creates a "controlled environment" corn breeding facility that is highly automated.

Growing corn is becoming more difficult. Weather and low commodity prices make it more difficult to create a profit.

Farmers need "elite corn hybrids with the latest trait packages," reads a letter from Syngenta.

The new facility's job is to bring different choices in seed traits to corn growers. New seed hybrids will offer benefits like insect control, herbicide tolerance and water optimization.

Scientists use a breeding technique called trait conversion to develop seeds best suited for the environment they will be grown in.

Trait Conversion Accelerator will help to shorten product development life cycles and more quickly provide farmers with the corn products they need to be more successful, according to David Hooinrake, a regional director for Syngenta.

“The Nampa Trait Conversion Accelerator is the latest demonstration of how we are putting the farmer first,” Hollinrake said. “Two years ago, we embarked on a five-year, $400 million incremental investment in our North American seeds business, which has enabled us to significantly increase our breeding and product testing capacity and pursue infrastructure projects like the state-of-the-art facility we’re celebrating today.”

Syngenta says corn growers are currently facing significant economic challenges, devastating weather events, and low prices.

“Our message for farmers is simple: We’re here for you,” Hollinrake said. “We know it’s tough out there. We’re mindful of that every day. Syngenta is investing in farmers’ success.”

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