Farmers Urged to Rethink Bt Corn Use

By Scout Nelson

A recent scientific study has raised concerns over the widespread use of genetically modified Bt corn, developed to fight corn rootworm pests. The research reveals that these traits are often used unnecessarily, especially in areas with low pest pressure, leading to financial losses and a rise in pest resistance.

Bt corn, first introduced in 2003, was designed to control rootworms. However, entomologists have observed that in western regions like Iowa and Nebraska, where corn is planted continuously, pest resistance is growing. Meanwhile, in eastern states such as Indiana and Ohio, where crop rotation is more common, pest levels remain low. Despite this, farmers across both regions continue to plant Bt hybrids, often without clear benefits.

The study found that the cost of Bt seed traits often exceeds the value of the yield they protect, particularly in regions with minimal rootworm pressure. For example, Indiana farmers in 2015 gained only $9 per acre from using Bt corn, far less than the seed premium paid.

Experts warn that unnecessary exposure of pests to Bt traits accelerates resistance. Once resistance sets in, the effectiveness of these traits is significantly reduced. Researchers encourage farmers to base decisions on actual pest levels rather than defaulting to using all available traits.

Farmers are advised to scout fields regularly and use tools like sticky traps and untreated crop strips to assess pest presence. Better-informed decisions can help reduce costs and preserve the long-term usefulness of Bt technology.

Ultimately, selective and informed use of Bt traits is a smarter, more sustainable approach to pest management in corn farming.

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