Refuge Angst: As pests evolve, farmers and seed companies rely on stewardship and science

摘要

The spike in corn acres, strong commodity prices, bold insect pressures and the pure success of trait technology is upping the ante on non-Bt refuges for producers smitten with Bt corn. With Bt hybrids boosting yields anywhere from 25 bu. to 40 bu. per acre versus non-Bt isolines, it's difficult to do the math and view today's refuge requirement as an economic burden. The cost—and hassle—of maintaining the 20% refuge has plenty of farmers grumbling. Even so, the vast majority of farmers comply with the current refuge requirements rather than risk losing their contractual right to buy and plant Bt corn.