The Impact Genetically Modified Traits Have had on Corn Yields

Authors

Nolan High

Abstract

The percent of corn acres planted in the United States using genetically modified (GM) seeds has almost quadrupled since 2000 (USDA, NASS, 2014). An increasing world population and limited supply of land has required another alternative source to meet the increasing demand for food, feed, and fiber (Barrows et al., 2013). One alternative source to meet increasing demand is GM seeds (Barrows et al., 2013). Studies examining the potential benefits of GM seeds have taken a broad worldview and estimated most of their own data.

The purpose of this paper is to look at the effects GM traits have on corn yields in the United States Corn Belt. This study focuses on an Acreage Report provided by the USDA and NASS. Unlike previous studies, the regression analysis in this study uses reported numbers, not just estimates, and controls for other production factors such as weather. In the next section, the approaches and findings of previous studies are reviewed.

Recommended Citation

High, Nolan (2016) "The Impact Genetically Modified Traits Have had on Corn Yields," Undergraduate Research Journal: Vol. 20, Article 2.
Available at: https://openspaces.unk.edu/undergraduate-research-journal/vol20/iss1/2