Jun 22, 2005 4:17 PM, by Natalie Knudsen

Syngenta's new Learning Centers are designed to bring cutting-edge research to the grower. They explore crop management options across a full range of products, including genetics, traits, seed treatment, crop protection inputs, tillage practices, planting dates, application timing, soil compaction, nutrients and plant health.

"Findings from the Syngenta Learning Centers support education and training for growers and dealers looking for innovative solutions," says Jim Elliott, AgriEdge development manager, solutions, for Syngenta Seeds. "They provide a unique opportunity for Syngenta to demonstrate how our broad portfolio of products and new technology can provide a solution to most growers' agronomic needs."

Locations. Syngenta has eight Learning Centers throughout the Midwest,with each location emphasizing one seed company's genetics. NK Brand is featured in McLean, IL; Bluffton, IN; Keystone, IA; and Arlington, WI. Garst Seed is highlighted in Wyoming, IL; Slater, IA; and Wood River, NE. Golden Harvest is the focus in Troy, OH.

Each 40- to 50-acre Learning Center plans at least one major customer Demonstration Day. Demonstration Day attendees also receive trial summary results on plots after harvest. The dates of the Learning Center Demonstration Days are as follows:

According to Elliott, the Learning Centers will remain open all summer. "Our local Syngenta Crop Protection and Seed representatives have the option to schedule customer visits for training and education, in addition to the Demonstration Day," he says.

Research. Syngenta Learning Centers are operated by third-party researchers. "Each Learning Center will have more than 11 corn and soybean integrated field studies," Elliott says. "In addition, we have established up to six trials, designed by local agronomists, to address local customer needs and agronomic issues unique to their geography and cropping systems."

Every trial is designed to allow for multiple hands-on activities. Elliot says that agronomists will actually dig up plants and provide customers with diagnostic training under true field conditions.

"What makes these Learning Centers unique is Syngenta's complete portfolio of products from genetics to crop protection to agronomic expertise," Elliot says. "Our completely integrated research and subsequent findings support education and training for growers and dealers looking for innovative solutions."

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