Washington, DC
June 30, 2000
Dr. Val Giddings, vice president for food and agriculture of the
Biotechnology Industry Organization (BIO) issued the following statement in response to today's U.S. Department of
Agriculture's National Agricultural Statistics Service estimates of acreage planted with genetically modified seeds.
"Today's report demonstrates the continued high confidence U.S. farmers have placed in the improved seeds
produced through biotechnology. In nearly every single crop category, producers have increased their purchase of the
biotech alternative to help them better manage their crop production. The expected drop in BT corn plantings is
attributed to a decreased presence of the European corn borer in many parts of the Midwest -- so farmers found no
need to purchase a premium-priced seed for ''insurance" against a problem that does not exist.
"Clearly, the benefits of these improved seed varieties help farmers to strengthen crops by making them more resistant
to disease, increase crop yields, and reduce the use of pesticides as part of an integrated pest management program.
"As the American farmer continues to lead the world in productivity, the biotechnology industry is making rapid
advances in developing the tools needed to feed the world in the 21st century. Just as we anticipate important medical
advances as a result of this week's announcement of the completion of mapping the human genome, researchers are
also decoding crops to identify the genes will make them more resistant to drought, disease and other forces of nature.
By overcoming these obstacles, biotechnology will continue to greatly increase farmers' ability to grow the food and
fiber necessary to feed and clothe families in this country and around the world.''
BIO represents more than 900 companies, academic institutions and biotech centers in 49 states and 26 nations. BIO
members are involved in the research and development of healthcare, agricultural, industrial and environmental
products.
1999 and 2000 Acreage Data on Biotechnology Crops
| |
Crops
approximate
acreage* (millions) |
Total U.S. crop
acreage (millions) |
Biotech share of
total acreage (%) |
| |
1999 |
2000 |
1999 |
2000 |
1999 |
2000** |
| Corn |
28.3 |
19.9 |
76.2 |
79.6 |
37 % |
25
% |
| Soybeans |
35.0 |
40.2 |
74.2 |
74.5 |
47 % |
54 % |
| Cotton |
7.0 |
9.5 |
14.6 |
15.6 |
48 % |
61 % |
|
*1999 figures are based on a survey of BIO member seed sales. All figures are estimates.
**2000 figures are based on USDA/NASS farmer survey report of June 30, 2000. Corn plantings are down to a decreased infestation of the European corn borer.
BIO news release
N2790 |
