Sponsored Content

Rootworm Management Becomes Critical as Farmers Plan 2027 Corn Season

Matt Dolch with Syngenta discusses rootworm pressure, the latest trait technologies, and how corn growers can plan for 2027.

Sponsored by

LINCOLN, NEB. (RFD NEWS) — Corn rootworm continues to be a costly challenge for U.S. farmers, accounting for up to $1 billion annually in yield losses and control measures.

Matt Dolch with Syngenta Golden Harvest joined us on Wednesday’s Market Day Report to discuss the latest in rootworm management as the growing season ramps up.

In his interview with RFD NEWS, Dolch shares what he is hearing from growers about corn rootworm pressure and how current trait packages are performing. He also explains where today’s trait options may fall short, especially under heavy pest pressure.

Farmers are advised on what signs to watch in their fields that indicate it may be time to consider a higher level of protection for 2027.

Looking ahead, Dolch highlights the upcoming Dura-Stak hybrids, featuring a triple Bt protein stack for corn rootworm control, available through Golden Harvest for the 2027 season, including expected benefits and performance.

Finally, he offers guidance on how and when farmers should work with their Golden Harvest seed advisors to secure Dura-Stak hybrids for next year.

Related Stories
Eliza Petry joins the RFD News team with a strong connection to agriculture and a commitment to covering the people and issues that matter most to rural America.
Farm CPA Paul Neiffer helps producers navigate farm program payments and understand the key details farmers need to know.
Todd Janzen with Janzen Schroeder Ag Law explains the updated ag data use agreement model and what it means for farmers and companies alike.
Early indications suggest the U.S. cattle industry may be nearing the end of its liquidation phase. Oklahoma State University livestock economist Dr. Derrell Peel says the industry could be at or near the cyclical low.
Beef x Dairy cattle with strong genetics and documentation are earning prices comparable to native feeders.

Marion is a digital content manager for RFD News and FarmHER + RanchHER. She started working for Rural Media Group in May 2022, bringing a decade of digital experience in broadcast media and some cooking experience to the team.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

President Donald Trump speaks at the World Economic Forum in Davos, addressing SNAP spending, tariff threats against Europe, market reactions, and the upcoming USMCA review.
From meatpacking settlements to landmark NEPA rulings, Roger McEowen outlines the top legal developments in 2025 that will shape agriculture in the years ahead.
Alan Bjerga with the National Milk Producers Federation joined us to review new policies and regulations supporting the dairy industry and what they mean for the year ahead.
Despite rising costs and growing food insecurity, meat demand remained strong in 2025 as higher-income consumers offset cutbacks elsewhere. Economists break down the K-shaped economy, upcoming USDA cattle reports, livestock production outlooks, and renewed debate over beef imports and country-of-origin labeling heading into 2026.
Corn growers are turning to ethanol, E15 expansion, and export markets to help absorb record supplies and stabilize prices. Farm leaders discuss low-carbon ethanol demand, flex-fuel vehicle challenges, input costs, and the role of USMCA as producers look for market relief in the year ahead.
From rising trade tensions in Europe to a pending Supreme Court decision on tariffs and shifting demand from China, global trade policy spearheaded by President Donald Trump continues to shape the outlook for U.S. agriculture—adding uncertainty as farmers navigate another volatile year.