That Didn't Last Long

Progressive Farmer:

 Severe damage caused by Western corn rootworm in Bt corn with Cry3Bb1 trait was reported in a corn field in Cass County, Ill., according to Mike Gray, University of Illinois extension entomologist.

Gray emphasized "this does not confirm resistance to this protein in Illinois" during a telephone interview with DTN. He and other entomologists, however, are strongly suggesting farmers begin to check corn fields for insect damage regardless of the Bt traits in the corn they planted.

The Cry3Bb1 protein protects roots from feeding by corn rootworm species. The plants from the Cass County field on June 7 all tested positive for the Cry3Bb1 protein at the University of Illinois laboratory.

Hybrids with the trait that expresses that protein include those from Monsanto and related companies with YieldGard VT Rootworm, YieldGard VT Triple and YieldGard VT Triple Pro brands. The Monsanto Genuity SmartStax and Dow Agrosciences SmartStax hybrids also contain that Cry protein in concert with other traits for rootworm and other insects.

The Cass County plants were under intense moisture stress, and the leaves were tightly rolled, Gray said. A high level of feeding was observed on the roots, which is common in drought-stressed corn because the roots are not able to develop properly.

Well, it was good while it lasted.  Looks like the Western Corn Belt is going to be dumping a lot of pesticide onto fields in upcoming years.