For Immediate Release

Trelay Seed Co. Joins Monsanto’s American Seed Inc. Respecting Grower Relationships in the Upper Mid-West Is Continuing Priority.

LIVINGSTON, WI (Sept. 2, 2005) – The Trelay Seed Co. announced today that it has been acquired by American Seeds, Inc. (ASI), a holding company formed by Monsanto Company. As Trelay’s seed sales company, Trelay Seed Co. will join ASI as a distinct operating subsidiary of the Core Group. It will continue to be operated as an independent brand. Four original Core Group member companies Stone Seeds, Springfield, IL; Stewart Seeds, Greensburg, IN; Fontanelle Hybrids, Fontanelle, NE and Trelay Seed Co. will comprise the Core Group under ASI.

Trelay Seed Co. has been selling seed since 1906 when Elmer Biddick first sold seed corn from Livingston. Roger Biddick joined Trelay after WWII diversifying Trelay with livestock and providing leadership to Wisconsin agriculture. The seedsmen at Trelay have provided growers with quality seed through innovation and commitment to the seed industry for nearly 100 years.

“ The seed industry is changing dynamically today as seed has become the vehicle to bring new value to growers,” said Brad Biddick, president of Trelay Seed Co. “To bring our customers the best and newest seed products we have joined ASI to continue Trelay’s innovative role and leadership approach to change. The Core Group concept was built on accessing markets, technology and information. Joining ASI continues this concept and
maintains a consistent market presence.”

“ We believe ASI represents a positive relationship dedicated to the success of the American farmer and the growth of innovative seed companies,” said Jason Biddick, Trelay Seed Co. sales manager. “Trelay will continue its active role of combining the talents of seedsmen with the advantages of Advanced Seed Technologies to benefit growers.”

Trelay Seed Co. markets corn, soybeans, alfalfa, small grains and grass seeds in Wisconsin, Iowa, Minnesota, Illinois and Michigan as a Core Group company under the High Cycle® Seed Systems brand of seed products.