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Customer research powers new product development at Corteva
At Corteva Agriscience, research and development (R&D) is not just another department – it’s the engine that drives the company’s mission to enrich the lives of producers and consumers while ensuring progress for generations to come. Customer-focused research in Range & Pasture is an important part of that process, explains Byron Sleugh, Ph.D., Crop Health R&D Integrated Biology Center of Expertise Leader at Corteva.
“Customer-focused research is at the heart of our product development program because, around the globe, 40% of the Earth’s surface is covered by grassland and 70% of agricultural land is grassland,” he says. “It’s an important part of our business as we strive to provide solutions for those who manage the land.”
Answering the question
The process to reach those solutions, however, is rigorous and sometimes lengthy. One of the most important aspects of research by Corteva is determining the problem that needs to be solved – and this means listening to producers.
“Years ago, customers would ask me what solutions we have to control Canada thistle or musk thistle while not killing white clover,” Sleugh recalls. “At the time, we didn’t have a good solution, but those questions helped us focus on the development of NovaGraz™ herbicide. Simply put, before we even know what product is going into the jug, we must figure out what question we’re trying to answer and what problem we’re trying to solve.”
Customer need is at the heart of Range & Pasture R&D efforts, says Byron Sleugh, Ph.D., Crop Health R&D Integrated Biology Center of Expertise Leader at Corteva.
Investing in R&D
For more than 100 years, Corteva has focused on innovation and the development of advanced technologies for farmers. This dedication takes time and a substantial investment.
“Currently, we invest about $4 million per day – to anticipate and solve farmers’ challenges,” Sleugh continues. “We also integrate sustainability into our research goals to be mindful of the impact we are having on biodiversity, wildlife and overall ecosystem of the area where the product is being used. That is our commitment to those who produce and those who consume. We want them to feel comfortable when they see how we are doing R&D and what farmers are using to produce the food that they eat.”
Corteva is set to further its strong track record of creating value by:
- Building on nearly a century of agronomic expertise
- Developing groundbreaking technologies that help farmers solve some of their toughest challenges
- Delivering seed and crop protection solutions for every acre
Contact your local Corteva Range & Pasture Specialist to discuss the best solutions for your pasture challenges.
White clover and annual lespedeza exhibit some initial injury (such as lodging and loss of vigor) but recover. NovaGraz™ is not registered for sale or use in all states. Contact your state pesticide regulatory agency to determine if a product is registered for sale or use in your state. Always read and follow label directions.