NCGA
Unveils Expanded, More Comprehensive ‘Know Before You Grow’ Web Site
(9-20-05)
As it continues
its efforts to educate corn growers on the importance of considering
the export and marketing implications of each corn hybrid before
they plant, the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) has unveiled
its expanded, more comprehensive Know Before You Grow database
at www.ncga.com.
”The integrity of the U.S. corn supply depends on the delivery
of commodity corn that meets or exceeds the expectations of our export
partners,” said NCGA Biotech Working Group Chair Darrin Ihnen.
In cooperation
with the nation’s leading seed companies, NCGA
has compiled a database of the leading biotech corn hybrids available
for the 2006 planting season. Categorized by biotechnology event,
the Know Before You Grow database lists whether a corn hybrid is
approved for U.S., Japan and/or European Union market consumption – and
allows growers to compare commercial hybrids that share the same
status. Sorted by seed retailer, each listing outlines the hybrid
name and number, event and relative maturity.
The newly expanded
Know Before You Grow database highlights 3,200 biotech hybrids
from 72 seed companies, and Ihnen said he expects both numbers
to grow.
“Every
year, hundreds of corn growers proactively research the marketing
opportunities before they finalize their seed purchase decisions,” said
Ihnen. “Through the Know Before You
Grow database, NCGA is striving to make this process as comprehensive
and convenient as possible.”
Ihnen NCGA has
also learned the Know Before You Grow database is a tool that is
respected and used worldwide. “The government
of South Africa, for instance, uses the information on a regular
basis, and the European Union also utilizes Know Before You Grow
as a reference tool,” he said.
Ihnen encouraged
seed companies not listed in the database to submit hybrids that
are available for the 2006 planting season. “By
supplying us with your list of hybrids including the event, hybrid
name, hybrid number and relative maturity, you will be providing
your customers – and potential customers – an invaluable
service,” he said.
To access the
Know Before You Grow database, click on the icon at www.ncga.com.
Seed companies can click on the “Seed retailers
click here!” link to download the submission forms.