Syngenta will be out, but not gone

There are folks on Kauai and Oahu who surely are fine with the news that Syngenta is pulling up stakes in its seed-crop operation here. The agribusiness companies have been in the thick of battles over genetically modified organism (GMO) controversies for some time. Perhaps some are happy to show them the door.

But be careful what you wish for, people. Syngenta is looking for someone willing to take on the thousands of acres of land it owns or leases. Company officials have said they want to contract with the new owner so Syngenta can continue its operations to some degree.

The question is: To what degree will they continue? A new owner could make other plans for some of the land. Kauai and Oahu residents will need to stay alert for word of those.