Technology Crops International (TCI) today announces plans for significant production expansion in response to increased demand from domestic and international clients for highly specialized crops. 

As part of this expansion, Curt Stern recently joined the company as specialty crops coordinator.  Stern’s experience and knowledge of specialty oilseeds, combined with a successful history of launching and managing crop production programs, make him a valuable addition to TCI.  Stern will be based in Carrington, N.D., where he and other members of the TCI team will manage contracting programs throughout the region.  Prior to joining TCI, Stern held the position of field manager with Northern Sun/ADM, where he was responsible for oil crop promotion in the U.S. and Canada.

Seeking qualified growers and service partners

TCI plans to contract more than 350,000 acres in 2005, introducing several exciting new crops into its portfolio.  With the help of Stern, the company seeks to sign up qualified growers for its premium-priced identity-preserved crops and will host grower meetings throughout the Midwest.   Approved growers will be provided with the highest quality seed, agronomic support, prompt and secure payments and preferential access to premium contracts.  Interested growers can visit techcrops.com or call 1-877-780-5882.

With the expansion of contracted acres, TCI will also expand its list of qualified elevators for production handling, add seed companies offering new genetics and widen its base of production processors.  

What are technology crops?

“Technology crops are those carefully selected to deliver a specific function or benefit over and above what is available from bulk commodity crops,” says Andrew Hebard, president and chief executive officer of TCI.”  The company provides valuable raw materials used in a variety of industries, including specialty nutrition, pharmaceuticals, and industrial chemicals, among others.  These technology crops require careful segregation and isolation throughout the supply chain--from seed selection to extraction to delivery. 

“As South American and Eastern European countries increase their agricultural production and influence commodity prices, North American growers can compete on a different set of criteria—not lowest price--but value-added quality and traceability.  Our crops give U.S. growers a way to differentiate their products and expertise and reduce their risks,” Hebard explains.  “Demand for technology crops is growing and we believe these crops represent a key part of future agriculture decisions in North America.”

Crop Assured 365™

Crop Assured 365™ is TCI’s proprietary process of identity preservation.  The Crop Assured 365™ seal assures that the technology crops are the highest quality available.  By using segregation, isolation and containment of genetic material throughout the supply chain, TCI ensures purity of raw materials from soil to oil.

Grower risk is virtually eliminated

In addition to a guaranteed buyer and premium prices, TCI offers growers contracts that include coverage for Acts of God and full production protection, thus virtually eliminating these major grower risks.  “Growers who contract with us benefit from higher prices, reduced grower risk --including coverage for Acts of God-- and the assurance of knowing that our contracts are written in clear, straightforward language with no hidden risks or costs,” says Hebard. 

Introducing innovative new crops

Working in partnership with government agencies, universities and private industry, TCI is leading the way in the commercialization of innovative new crops that are certain to become major new additions for growers in the U.S.  According to Dr. Terry Isbell, research leader of the new crops and processing technology unit at USDA, “These specialty crops hold keen interest and benefit to growers.  They are providing much-needed diversification for Midwest farmers, many of whom have struggled economically for years.  These crops address biodiversity issues and help U.S. growers transition to self-sustaining crops that don’t require government subsidies.” 

Responding to consumer demands for healthier alternatives

Some of TCI’s crops offer healthier alternatives that address two major issues in the U.S.:  dangerous dietary transfats and dependence on petroleum for energy needs.    “Many of the oils derived from the crops we contract replace animal and petroleum-based oils, reflecting the growing demand for products that contribute to a healthier society and environment,” explains Stern. 

Technology Crops International is a global leader in the evaluation, development, commercialization and delivery of new and high-value strategic oilseed crops, such as high erucic acid rapeseed oil, high oleic sunflower oil, meadowfoam, cuphea, lesquerella, camelina and echium.  The Company offers a full spectrum of expert services in specialty crop contracting and serves the biotechnology, pharmaceutical, industrial chemical, specialty nutrition and medical foods industries.  With offices in the U.S. and the U.K., TCI supplies clients around the world with safe, sustainable, traceable and cost-competitive crop-derived products.