LULING — Monsanto is beginning its preliminary investment in an expansion of its St. Charles Parish operations.

Pending a final investment decision by the company board in early 2016, Monsanto potentially could invest more than $1 billion over the course of three to five years to support its Roundup Ready Xtend Crop System, Louisiana Economic Development officials said, creating 95 new direct jobs in the process.

Governor Bobby Jindal and Monsanto President and Chief Operating Officer Brett Begemann announced the decision today, which would impact the company’s Luling footprint.

In addition to retaining 645 current jobs at the site, state officials said the new jobs would average $76,500 per year, plus benefits.

Louisiana Economic Development estimates the project would result in an additional 450 new indirect jobs in the state. The company estimates development of the project would generate 1,000 construction jobs at peak building activity.

“Monsanto has pursued a successful strategy of growth, diversification and sustainability in its production of agricultural products in our state,” Jindal said. “We’re proud that this global leader in agriculture has chosen Louisiana over other states and nations for this potential project. This investment not only would retain hundreds of valuable jobs in our state but provide many more great career opportunities for Louisiana families.”
The production of branded crop protection products, including the active ingredient dicamba, at Monsanto’s Luling site is expected to play an important role in helping farmers produce better harvests. With initial use in soybean and cotton crops, the Roundup Ready Xtend Crop System dicamba-based products are targeting application across the Americas.

“Our Luling facility is a logical site uniquely positioned at the center of Monsanto’s manufacturing network, with convenient access across the Americas where the Roundup Ready Xtend Crop System has a fit,” Begemann said. “The state’s highly skilled workforce and business-friendly environment also put Louisiana at the top of our list for this potential expansion.”

LED began formal discussions about the project with Monsanto in March. To secure the project, the State of Louisiana offered Monsanto a performance-based Modernization Tax Credit of $5 million, along with a performance-based $1.7 million Economic Development Award Program grant to reimburse rail and electrical infrastructure costs associated with the expansion.

The company also would receive help from the state’s workforce development program.

St. Charles Parish President V.J. St. Pierre Jr. said local residents pride themselves on having an excellent working relationship with industry.

“We welcome the jobs and economic growth that this endeavor would bring to our parish,” he said.