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Report Shows Insect-Protected Cotton Helps Farmers And Environment
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Planting cotton, which has been genetically enhanced to resist insects, significantly benefits the environment, according to a summary report produced by Dr. Roger Leonard of Louisiana State University and Dr. Ronald Smith, of Auburn University. According to this report, the use of modified cotton not only results in increased profits for the grower, but significantly reduces the amount of insecticide released into the environment.
When farmers plant insect-resistant cotton, fewer natural resources are used to make and transport chemical insecticides. The report estimates that last year, 3.46 million tons of raw materials were saved in manufacturing and distribution, along with 2.08 million gallons of fuel oil. In addition, 2.16 million pounds of industrial waste were eliminated.
Farmers realized even more savings since less insecticide use means fewer trips across the field. Savings were estimated at 41,250 10-hour days of aerial applications, 2.41 million gallons of fuel and 93.7 million gallons of water. These lower costs of production along with increases in cotton yield have provided farmers with an additional $168 million of income.
Reduced insecticide use has other benefits as well. Risk of pesticide exposure is lowered, beneficial insect populations are preserved, and farmers are given more time to spend as they choose.
The report concludes that insect-protected cotton supports farmers in their stewardship of the natural environment, improves efficiency and increases the effectiveness of crop production management.
Drs. Leonard and Smith are Extension Agents with extensive experience in the southern U.S. cotton production area.
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