2019 Spring Farm Outlook

Page 34 2019 Logan County Farm Outlook Magazine Lincoln Daily News March 21, 2019 Though they share characteristics with the “parent plants,” they will not be identical or even look like the parent plants. There are advantages in producing new plant varieties. Kristin Michaelis says, “Farmers and gardeners have been cultivating new plant varieties for thousands of years through selective breeding. They did this by cross- pollinating two different, but related plants over 6 to 10 plant generations, eventually creating a new plant variety.” Michaelis says, “The process required patience, but was rewarding. By selectively cross-pollinating related plants in this way, farmers could create varieties that were healthier and stood up to the farmer’s micro- climate — their soil, their weather patterns, their predatory insects.” Those who want to avoid chemical exposure may use organic seeds, which the maximum yield site says, “come from plants grown strictly without the use of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides. The use of sewage sludge, irradiation, and genetic engineering is also prohibited in organic seed harvesting.” The USDA has certain standards that must be followed when using these seeds. The United Soybean Board says, “Gene editing is an example of plant breeding innovation that allows plant scientists and breeders to precisely make specific changes to a plant’s DNA using a plant’s own internal processes.” Working with the genetic makeup of the plant creates a new seed variation. Gene edited seeds can also thrive in challenging weather conditions and grow well despite pests. Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) are created in a lab using biotechnology and gene-splicing of favorable genes to get desired traits. Sources show that many tests are conducted to help ensure their safety. Like hybrids, GMO plants may be drought tolerant. They endure hotter and colder temperatures, often have good crop yields, and are considered sustainable. There is need for regulation, though. In the article “GMOs — Top five concerns for family farmers,” Farm Aid calls for: n Fair and affordable access to seeds and the right for farmers to save seeds. Continue 8