Monsanto to Close Plant

Monsanto Chemical Co. has announced plans to close its Carson manufacturing plant by the end of the year and lay off 47 employees.

Cherrie Green, a spokeswoman for the company, said Wednesday that the closing is part of a broader restructuring effort by Monsanto. Green said the Carson site was considered small by industry standards and has had difficulty making a profit.

The plant, owned by Monsanto since 1985, produces alkylates used in forming liquid detergents. Manufacturing of the alkylates will be increased at the company’s plant in Alvin, Tex., Green said.