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NCGA:
Use IRM to Protect Bt Technology (1-3-02)
Bacillus
thuringiensis, or Bt, corn has proven to be an important technology
to help the nation's corn growers control damaging insects and produce
higher yields and better quality grain. To preserve the benefits of
Bt corn technology for growers, the National Corn Growers Association
(NCGA) recommends the implementation of Insect Resistance Management
(IRM) practices.
"Not
only do the experts agree that an effective IRM should include the planting
of non-Bt corn planted next to your Bt acres," said NCGA Director
of Development Tom Slunecka, "government regulations require this."
The
IRM program is based on refuge size, distance guidelines and insecticide
usage. Slunecka noted that growers who don't follow IRM requirements
risk losing access to Bt technology. "That's something NCGA doesn't
want to see happen," he said.
IRM
requires a refuge of at least 20 acres of non-Bt corn for every 80 acres
of Bt corn. The refuge must be planted within a half-mile of the Bt
corn, but a quarter-mile is preferred. For corn planted in cotton growing
areas, there must be a 50 percent refuge. In other words, for every
50 acres of Bt corn, there must also be a 50-acre refuge.
Slunecka
said to maximize the effectiveness of the refuges, both Bt and non-Bt
corn should be managed similarly.
"This
can be done by planting your non-Bt corn as close to and at the same
time as the Bt corn," he said. "You should also select non-Bt
hybrids that have similar growth and development characteristics as
the Bt hybrid."
Slunecka
concluded by saying the NCGA agrees with the idea of unified commitment
to responsible stewardship of Bt corn so it can be used as an important
tool in corn management.
"We
encourage growers to implement IRM when planting Bt corn," he said.
"Again, not only is this an EPA requirement, but it's the right
thing to do to preserve this important technology."
For
more information on IRM, visit the NCGA website at http://www.ncga.com/biotechnology/insectMgmtPlan/index.htm.
Last reviewed
January 3, 2002
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