Conversations about Plant Biotechnology is now offering video conversations and podcasts with Brazilian farmers - bringing the total number of video segments with growers to more than 35 and representing nine of the 21 countries that grew biotech crops in 2005.

The addition of Brazilian farmers is significant because they grew more than 23 million acres (4.4 million hectares) of genetically modified (GM) soybeans in 2005, which represents nearly a 90 percent increase in acreage over 2004 and the largest increase of any country in 2005.

In addition, Brazilian farmers are leaders in the development and adoption of conservation tillage – the practice of minimizing or eliminating plowing of the soil. In a newly posted segment, Brazilian soybean farmer Armindo Mugnol describes the environmental benefits of GM crops on his farm, including the return of wildlife habitats and protection of the soil through the elimination of plowing. Visitors can also view a newly released compilation video with three Brazilian farmers, who describe the benefits of GM crops within their operations and the region.

Monsanto Company initially launched Conversations about Plant Biotechnology in October 2005 and, this week, also features its first redesign. The site now provides a state–of–the–art online video player, cutting–edge video distribution system, and more flexible, simpler navigation. The changes will make it easier and faster for visitors to view videos with growers and experts about the benefits of GM crops.