Management of European Corn Borer (Lepidoptera: Crambidae) and Corn Rootworms (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) with Transgenic Corn: a Survey of Farmer Perceptions

Abstract

In late 1995, 799 Iowa farmers answered a survey that evaluated their perception of the pest status of European corn borer, Ostrinia nubilalis (Hiibner); their current management practices; their perceptions of transgenic Bacillus thuringiensis corn; and the potential impact that transgenic B. thuringiensis corn technology may have on insect management and farming practices. Yield losses attributed to European corn borer [13.29 bushels/hectare (5.38 bushels/acre)] were significantly greater than for other com pests [< 9.31 bushels/hectare (< 3.77 bushels/acre)]. During the past 5 yr, most farmers (68%) attempted to manage European corn borer. Approximately the same percentage (69%) of farmers thought weather-related factors caused the greatest mortality to European corn borers. Nearly 75% had heard about B. thuringiensis corn before receiving the survey. Farmers were enthusiastic about B. thuringiensis corn and (23.4%) wanted to plant some in 1996. Farmers were given a list of potential advantages of using B. thuringiensis corn and asked to rate the importance of each. The 3 most important advantages were less insecticide exposure to farm workers (71.3%), potentially better yields for farmers (69.8%), and less insecticide in the environment (66.8%). Only 37% said they would purchase B. thuringiensis corn from another company if their regular seed company did not offer B. thuringiensis corn. Given the potential for transgenic corn that is resistant to corn rootworms, farmers were asked to describe their attitudes toward B. thuringiensis corn for corn rootworm control. Many farmers were enthusiastic about the possibility, and 29.5% wanted to plant some as soon as it was available. The greatest advantage of transgenic corn for corn rootworms was less insecticide in the environment (40%). From these responses, it is clear that Iowa farmers are interested in B. thuringiensis corn technology and that adoption of these products may occur quickly.