$12 million greenhouse to feed pharmaceutical research

Bayer opens facility in West Sacramento to develop crop protection products.


A $12 million investment in California has put into play a 40,000 square foot research facility operated by pharmaceutical giant Bayer.

"This is a critical part of our development work we do to bring new crop protection products to the growers," says site leader Mike Mille. "This is a big step for us to have these resources in West Sacramento."

The facility's goal is to create plants that can produce more fruit and vegetables, and research safer alternatives to pesticides.
 
"We don't have to tell researchers 'no' anymore. We can grow as much as they want," says greenhouse manager Bethany Gale. "They put in a plant request and, depending on the turnaround of the crop, it's like six to 25 days and we are able to give them what they asked for."