Burrus Hybrids Supports Dow-DuPont Merger

I am president of Burrus Hybrids, which markets seed corn, soybeans and alfalfa in the Midwest. As a businessman and farmer, I believe the merger of Dow and DuPont is good for American agriculture.

I am pleased that the company will remain American owned, rather than internationally controlled, like others in the industry. A strong American presence in the inputs marketplace allows the needs of American farmers to drive research and innovation priorities. This keeps American farmers competitive while strengthening agriculture worldwide.

Combining the two companies, which have R&D capabilities that complement one another, drives a faster pace of innovation to provide farmers with novel combinations of traits and competitive products and prices. Farmers need companies that have a deep understanding of their operation needs. With a larger, more balanced portfolio of crop protection and seed products, the combined DowDuPont will be better able to meet the needs and demands of growers.

We operate licensing and distribution models to access the most competitive germplasm and seed traits. My opinion is that the combined company will be well equipped to compete with other major players in the seed industry. It is important that growers have seed brand choices, which the combination of the two companies will continue to ensure.

I feel this merger is necessary for the companies to survive for the long term. A strong, focused American ag company that combines the collective expertise of Dow Agrosciences and DuPont Pioneer and Crop Protection is a good thing for farmers. It is the best path forward to sustain Iowa, American agriculture and farmers globally.