Las Cruces, N.M.-Helena Chemical Co., which has been going the rounds with state environmental officials and even a few local residents over its in-state operations, is increasing its public presence in New Mexico communities. The latest indication involved taking a leading role in a New Mexico Ag Week event here last week. Helena, one of the sponsors, had Louis Rodrigue, corporate vice president, serving as moderator at the March Ag Industry Roundtable luncheon at the New Mexico Farm & Ranch Heritage Museum, which also had other business and agriculture representatives on the program. Helena spokeswoman Linda Lockett wouldn’t say if it was part of an image-polishing effort, but did note that “Helena has been involved in several community initiatives, including supporting the youth ag programs, in the Las Cruces/Mesquite area for a number of years. Recently, they have been doing even more.” At the same time, Helena disclosed that the Collierville, Tenn.-based company is opening a facility in Walkerton, Va., to supply farmers in the region. A grand opening was scheduled March 20 at the facility, which includes 30,000 square feet of warehouse space and about 5 acres of yard space. Branch manager Don Cline says the facility will allow Helena Chemical to reach the Northern Neck area, which has a strong agricultural base. Helena also has facilities in Franklin, Mount Crawford, Tasley, and Winchester.
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