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Overuse of corn rootworm traits can reduce ROI

An entomologist at Purdue University says overreliance on corn-rootworm resistant traits has reduced profitability for some farmers. 

Christian Krupke says states in the Eastern Corn Belt have used the trait the most, which has impacted its efficacy. 

“If you’re using Bt rootworm corn in a state like Indiana, ideally you would back off on that pressure by not using Bt corn,” he says. “You save yourself money as a farmer and you save the approach for when you need it.”

He tells Brownfield needs vary, based on location, so farmers should evaluate corn rootworm pressure on their operation before investing in the trait. 

“If there’s no pest pressure, or if it’s very low, and you’re paying this cost, you’re not getting a return on your investment,” he says. “But if you have a lot of pest pressure and you have a product that works, then you do get a good return on your investment.”

Krupke says implementing a diversified pest management strategy can help prevent corn rootworm resistance and help farmers get a better return on their investment.

AUDIO: Christian Krupke, Purdue University