2019 Spring Farm Outlook

2019 Logan County Farm Outlook Magazine Lincoln Daily News March 21, 2019 Page 35 n Increased funding for public plant and animal breeding to develop locally and regionally adapted seed and breed varieties. n Antitrust enforcement in the highly concentrated private seed sector. n Biotech companies to be held accountable for GMO contamination. n Stronger independent review and oversight of GMO crops and animals prior to their approval and following their release into the environment and marketplace. There are some fears about possible toxins in GMOs. However, the Food and Drug Administration, in conjunction with the U.S. Department of Agriculture and Environmental Protection Agency, regulates genetically enhanced crops and found that foods from GMO plant varieties are as safe as comparable non-GMO foods. Organic foods — which are not derived from GMOs — are regulated by USDA and labeled “USDA organic.” One question to consider is whether there are reasons to use GMO seed when you can get the same drought resistant traits using hybrids. Another consideration for using legacy seeds is that foreign markets may reject GMOs due to concerns over the herbicides and pesticides used on them. Beyond the environment interests, why would a producer choose to plant a specialty; legacy, organic or non-gmo seed crop? For its higher premium edge in turning a profit. Here are some comments and figures from the National Weekly Non-GMO/GE Grain Report on March 8, 2019: Compared to last week: Demand is very good with moderate trade. Grower bids for corn and soybeans were steady. The Agricultural Marketing Service AMS closing cash grain bids for non-gmo corn ranged from $3.55 - $3.70 and non-gmo soybeans $8.41 - $8.50 per bushel. Comparing the Chicago open grains market on March 12th, corn was selling $3.21 to $3.42 per bu. and soybeans were $8.51 to $8.53 per bu. Which seed should you use? Your decision will reflect your priorities and how you want to farm. It is a whole handling system difference getting premium value added crops market. If you put your highest value on cost savings, heirloom seeds may your best choice. If Continue 8