The GLP aggregated and excerpted this blog/article to reflect the diversity of news, opinion and analysis.
Why do the farmers choose to use GMO seeds? What do they see as the benefits that influence their decision to adopt GMO technology? Why are they willing to pay more for GMO seed than conventional seed? Are GMOs part of sustainable agriculture?
Public concerns about water quality and soil health are rightfully gaining headlines in the popular press. Vermont dairy farmers share these concerns and recognize the positive role of GMO crops in helping them address these concerns.
GMO technology goes hand in hand with good soil management. GMO crops are a vital tool in the use of no-till soil management, planting seeds directly into soil without plowing the land. Combining no-till with planting of cover crops in the fall improves soil health and supports water conservation.
. . . .
Using GMO seeds allows the farm to plant corn quickly, which is essential in the cool Northeast climate. By planting their corn crop early, farms can quickly move on to harvesting high quality, early cut grass forages.
. . . .
By reducing the fuel used to prepare fields and spray crops for pests, GMO technology has significantly reduced the release of fuel and soil greenhouse gas emissions from crop production.
. . . .
GMO technology has reduced the total volume of pesticide spraying by more than 30 percent. . . .
Farmers use tools that work.
. . . in the 18 years since GMO traits have been commercially available in soy, corn and cotton, nearly 90 percent of all U.S. acres have been planted to the seeds. Why? Because GMO crops help farmers care for the soil, water and their livestock.
Read full, original post: Louise H. Calderwood: Genetically Modified Crops — From the Farmer’s Perspective
