Monsanto Fund: Southwest Tech receives $8,305 grant

Grayce Ries, Osborn & Barr, 314.236.6936
Jason Biddick , Monsanto, 608.943.6450

Livingston Monsanto site helps local college purchase grain bin rescue tube system

FENNIMORE, Wis. (Date) – Peaceful fields, bright blue skies, open spaces – when most people think about farms, they envision the serene landscapes often found in art museums. Few people realize that farming is actually one of the most dangerous professions in America. Of all farm accidents, grain bin accidents can be among the most severe and grain bin rescues can be among the most difficult. When Southwest Wisconsin Technical College expressed an interest in training their students in grain bin rescue techniques, the Livingston Monsanto site recognized the importance of this training and nominated the school for a grant to purchase grain bin rescue equipment.

The technical college, located in Fennimore, was presented with a grant for $8,305 from the Monsanto Fund, the philanthropic arm of the Monsanto Company, during a presentation on Dec. 2. The funds will be used to purchase a Liberty Rescue Tube.

“The Liberty Rescue Tube is made up of four pieces that lock together to form a tube,” said Rita Luna, directory of the EMS and fire program at the college. “The tube is driven into the grain surrounding the victim and the grain is then removed from inside the tube, allowing the victim to be removed safely from the grain bin.”

Jason Biddick of Monsanto was excited to play a part in the donation.
“The college has always been very safety-oriented,” Biddick said “The purchase of this rescue tube will enable them to train members of the community on its use, expanding their already impressive list of safety classes offered.”

Rita Luna was very appreciative of the grant.

“This newly developed tool will truly enhance the likelihood of survival among victims of grain bin accidents,” Luna said.

This grant is part of a broad commitment by the Monsanto Fund, which is focused on strengthening farming communities, as well as the communities where Monsanto’s employees live and work.

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