WASHINGTON, Dec. 16, 2016 – Genetically modified crops may not be popular among certain aspects of the population, but those responsible for their growth see the technology as an essential tool.
A survey of 282 U.S. farmers shows 98 percent of them think GMO seeds – typically bred to be resistant to things like certain crop protection chemicals – are the best way to lessen their environmental footprint, and 69 percent believe the technology leads to higher yields.
"The farmers' perspective in the survey findings are a direct indication of how important genetic engineering technology is for the environment and our food supply, and how it benefits farmers and consumers alike,” Chip Bowling, a past president of the National Corn Growers Association and the current vice chair of the U.S. Farmers and Ranchers Alliance, said in a statement.
NCGA and USFRA – two groups that have publicly supported the use of biotechnology in the past – released the survey results.
Some other findings from the survey:
- 87 percent of producers said GMO seeds allow them to reduce their pesticide and herbicide usage;
- 64 percent said GMO seeds allow for efficient management of resources, specifically, fuel, time and less wear-and-tear on their equipment;
- 78 percent foresee increased environmental impacts—including an increase in water usage and application of pesticides—if GMO seeds were not to be available to them as a choice in crop production;
- 92 percent of those surveyed have been using GMO seeds for 10 or more years, and grow a variety of crops, including corn, soybeans, alfalfa, wheat and cotton.
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