Dupont funds agricultural initiative

DuPont has granted US$200,000 to a University of Illinois initiative to address the growing need for effective communications in agriculture, feed and fibre, to name a few.

"Agriculture is undergoing incredible change at the same time dynamic new media is redefining the field of communications. Additional focus and understanding at the intersection of those two trends should bring incredible benefits to farmers and consumers and others throughout the value chain," said Paul E. Schickler, Pioneer Hi-Bred president.

The university plans to enhance its joint agricultural communications program with sufficient teaching and research support that includes at least three teaching positions and initiatives in environmental and consumer communications.

DuPont Crop Protection President James C. Collins says, "Agricultural production needs to nearly double by 2050. Science from DuPont is part of the solution. We'll also need collaboration and innovation across sectors to meet the challenge. And effective communications is vital to our ability to do that."