MONSANTO TO FUND 'FARMERS GROW COMMUNITIES'

Indiana farmers in 83 counties including Wells and surrounding counties have an opportunity to provide a boost to their rural community with a $2,500 award available to their favorite nonprofit civic group or unit of government.

The program provides a great opportunity for farmers to nominate their favorite local non-profit. In 2009, the first year of the program, the funds provided nearly 500 farmers in 10 states with $2,500 awards to the non-profit organization of their choice. The program in 2010 has now expanded to more than 1,200 counties across 38 states.

Some of the more popular non-profits receiving the awards from the farmers include: FFA, 4-H, and fire departments. Those groups selected have included: Boys & Girls Club, SWCD, Boy Scouts, Girls Scouts, and Park Boards.

Farmers can apply online at www.growcommunities.com or call 1-877-267-3332. Farmers 21 and over, who are actively engaged in farming a minimum of 250 acres of corn, soybeans and / or 40 acres of open field vegetables or at least 10 acres of tomatoes, peppers, and / or cucumbers grown in protected culture are eligible. Farmers can enter now through December 31, 2010.

The program is open to all qualifying farmers, and no purchase is necessary in order to enter or win. One winner will be drawn from each of the participating counties, and the Monsanto Fund will announce winning farmers and recipient organizations by February 2011.

Support your favorite non-profit. Enter the Monsanto Funds America's Farmers Grow Communities program.