Agriculture and Environment: Corn (Maize)

Environmental Impacts of Production: Cross-Pollination and Contamination by GM Corn

The issues of cross-pollination and contamination by genetically modified corn, and the associated liability issues, will probably drive some farmers away from transgenic seeds.

Seed companies have come to assume that corn pollen drifts no more than 185 meters (600 feet). However, Neil Harl, an agricultural economist from lowa State, has said that pollen can drift over 8 kilometres (5 miles) (American Corn Growers Association 2001).

Who is right? Perhaps more importantly who will be liable If the seed industry is confident that the distance is 185 meters (600 feet), then they should assume liability for any crossing or contamination beyond that.

GMOs are expected to be a continuous source of concern, but it is there uncontrolled introduction and proliferation that are especially disturbing. Perhaps one of the most important issues is the potential impact of GMOs on microorganisms, upon which so much of sustainable agriculture will depend. Can GMOs change landscapes? Can GMOs pose hazards to the fragile habitats and to wildlife itself? These, too, may ultimately be questions about liability.