While genetically modified organisms (GMO) has taken place in agriculture of thousands of years, the adoption of genetically modified crops has increased dramatically over the last few decades. Now, bio-tech corn makes up more than 90 percent of crops grown in the United States.
In 1996 (27 years ago), genetically modified versions of corn, soybeans, and cotton were introduced in the U.S. Within a few years, they took the lead; and soon after, other GMO varieties were adopted for canola and sugar beets.
According to U.S. Dept. of Agriculture (USDA), around 55 percent of all U.S. crops harvested in 2020 were grown with at least one genetically modified trait. These scientific innovations seem to be working well for farmers—analysts say the U.S. could be on track to bring in the second-largest corn harvest. This comes despite major concerns for the domestic corn crop just a few months ago due to harsh weather conditions.
This year’s DTN Digital Yield Tour powered by Gro Intelligence estimates corn farmers will bring in 177 bushels per acre nationwide.
