Southern soybean growers will reap the benefits of an expanded breeding program from Bayer, which includes a $6-million Soybean Breeding and Trait Development Station surrounded by 180 acres of research and showcase plots in Marion, Arkansas.

The innovative facility builds on a proven history of profitable, high-yielding soybean varieties that Bayer brings to market through its flagship Credenz soybean brand. Work here will focus on providing the maturity group (MG) 4 and 5 varieties that are essential to soybean production in the south.

“When launched in 2014, Credenz soybeans added strength to the production opportunities available to growers,” says Chris Tinius, Bayer global soybean breeding director. “This new facility adds weight to the bar Credenz raised.”

The Marion Soybean Breeding and Trait Development Station was part of Bayer’s commitment to invest nearly $1 billion in the U.S. between 2013 and 2016 in new facilities and capital expansion. The Bayer team is poised to deliver higher returns for growers focused on addressing soybean production challenges, particularly Sudden Death Syndrome, southern stem canker, southern root-knot nematode and soybean cyst nematode.

Listen to the complete announcement and press conference here: Marion Soybean Breeding and Trait Development Station Press Conference

View and download photos from the event here: New Bayer U.S. Research Facilities