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Genetically Modified Organisms
Scientists have been improving crop genetics for generations. What's so different about GMOs?
For centuries humans have directed the recombining of genetic material through the selective breeding of plants and animals leading to new varieties better suited to their environments. As the knowledge of the genetic basis of heredity has grown, the genetic modifications have become more precise. Genetic engineering, or recombinant DNA technology, refers to the very precise molecular techniques that join specific segments of DNA molecules from different sources. This is accomplished with enzymes designed to cut and join DNA in predictable ways.
Many scientists view genetic engineering as simply an extension of selective breeding because it is the joining of genetic material from different sources to create organisms that possess new, useful traits. In genetic engineering single genes whose function is known are moved from one organism to another. By increasing the precision and certainty of the genetic manipulations, the risk of producing organisms with unexpected traits decreases.
The traits agricultural scientists are incorporating into crops through genetic engineering are precisely the same traits that have been bred into crops through selective breeding: improved nutritional content; delayed ripening; resistance to diseases caused by bacteria, fungi and viruses; better taste; the ability to withstand harsh environmental conditions such as freezes and droughts; greater nitrogen-fixation capabilities; and resistance to pests such as insects, weeds and nematodes.
What does it mean to our environment? As plants become more resistant to disease, pests and adverse weather conditions, less crop protectants and nutrients are needed. Increase yields will allow land in more environmentally sensitive areas to be set aside for protection of those critical areas.
What does it mean to our economy? As the quality and yield of agricultural products improves, a more stable farm economy will improve rural areas. Decreases in production costs will provide consumers continued low cost foods at a higher quality. Food safety will be increased as tests for harmful bacteria will be quicker and more sensitive to low levels of contamination than previous tests because of the specificity of the techniques.
Visit Council for Agricultural Science and Technology for more information.
Environment
Protecting the environment is essential to a farmer's operation. But what are they really doing?
Long before the term "environmentalist" was coined, Maryland farmers were quietly working to protect natural resources while providing a steady food supply for a growing population. This legacy of stewardship dates back to the Dust Bowl years of the 1930s when Maryland farmers began working with soil conservationists to protect the soil from the devastating effects of wind and water erosion. Today, Maryland farmers plan and implement conservation practices and programs that balance crop and livestock production with the need to protect natural resources.
As concern for the health of the Chesapeake Bay has intensified, Maryland farmers have taken a proactive role in the restoration effort by changing the way they farm the land. Farmers are implementing approved nutrient management plans which provide site-specific fertilizer recommendations designed to maximize yields while minimizing nutrient losses to the environment. Nutrient management plans also help ensure proper storage, handling and application of fertilizers and animal manure.
Farmers statewide are using a range of conservation tools designed to prevent soil erosion, control nutrient movement, and safeguard water quality in the Bay and its tributaries to ensure a healthy environment while providing for the food and fiber needs of the consumer.
What does it mean to our economy? Agriculture is Maryland's largest industry, contributing 11 billion dollars annually to the state. Farmers know their economic future depends on caring for their environment to allow for production in future years.
Visit Conservation - Harmony with the Land and Backyard Actions for a Cleaner Chesapeake Bay for more information.