Michigan Ag Connection - State Biotech Use in Corn Down, Soybeans Up

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State Biotech Use in Corn Down, Soybeans Up
Michigan Ag Connection - 07/01/2016

The use of biotechnology varieties for corn decreased in Michigan in 2016, according the USDA, NASS, Great Lakes Regional Office. Biotechnology varieties accounted for 91 percent of the corn acres planted in Michigan, down from 92 percent last year. Soybean plantings included 95 percent biotechnology varieties, up 1 percent from last year.

Nationally, biotechnology varieties of corn totaled 92 percent of the acres planted, unchanged from 2015. Soybean acreage planted to biotech varieties was also unchanged at 94 percent.

Farmers were asked if they planted corn or soybeans that, through biotechnology, are resistant to herbicides, insects, or both. Conventionally bred herbicide resistant varieties are excluded. Insect resistant varieties include only those containing bacillus thuringiensis (Bt). The Bt varieties include those that contain more than one gene that can resist different types of insects. Stacked gene varieties include only those containing biotech traits for both herbicide and insect resistance.

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