Cargill has opened it's new omega-3 research and development facility in Great Falls, Montana.

“We’re thrilled one of the world’s largest privately held companies has chosen Great Falls, Mont. for their innovative research facility,” says Brett Doney, president and CEO of the Great Falls Montana Development Authority (GFDA). “This type of international research partnership is the first of its kind. Projects like this are essential components for advancing our food system and the heart of Montana, Great Falls, is the perfect location to achieve those breakthroughs.”

Cargill is developing its new Omega-3 hybrid canola by breeding canola in Montana using a dedicated facility and team. The new oilseed variety was developed in Montana for Montana growing conditions through a Cargill and BASF partnership. Cargill will contract with growers to begin planting the new variety in the 2020 crop season, eventually reaching 500,000 acres of farmland throughout the Great Falls region. The project is currently under review by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) for regulatory approvals.

“This oilseed variety represents a new cropping option that gives growers an alternative rotational crop that comes with the support, expertise and experience of Cargill,” said Keith Horton, Senior Trial Agronomist, Cargill.

Cargill says the unique climate of the Great Falls area with its warmer winters, cooler summers, lighter winds and evenly distributed rainfall, paired with the Great Falls region's rich soil, has made the location an ideal breeding ground for its pioneering research.