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Article
Bt Corn and Insect Resistance: An Economic Assessment of Refuges
Journal of Agricultural and Resource Economics
  • Terrance M. Hurley, University of Minnesota - Twin Cities
  • Bruce A. Babcock, Iowa State University
  • Richard L. Hellmich, Iowa State University
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
7-1-2001
Abstract

Genetically engineered crops offer farmers a new option for controlling pests. The high efficacy of these pesticidal crops, combined with the potential for widespread adoption, has raised concerns that pest resistance may prematurely diminish their value. In response to these concerns, the Environmental Protection Agency requires resistance management plans. Current resistance management plans rely on a highdose refuge strategy. This analysis extends the current framework for evaluating high-dose refuge strategies to include a measure of agricultural productivity and conventional pesticide use. The economic tradeoff relative to agricultural productivity, conventional pesticide use, and pest resistance is assessed when Bt corn is planted to control the European corn borer.

Comments

This article is from Journal of Agricultural and Resource Economics; 26 (2001); 176-194;URI: http://purl.umn.edu/31156

Rights
Works produced by employees of the U.S. Government as part of their official duties are not copyrighted within the U.S. The content of this document is not copyrighted.
Copyright Owner
Western Agricultural Economics Association
Language
en
File Format
application/pdf
Citation Information
Terrance M. Hurley, Bruce A. Babcock and Richard L. Hellmich. "Bt Corn and Insect Resistance: An Economic Assessment of Refuges" Journal of Agricultural and Resource Economics Vol. 26 Iss. 1 (2001) p. 176 - 194
Available at: http://works.bepress.com/bruce-babcock/40/