When There is a Crisis There is Opportunity

Jun 28, 2012

Monsanto sees U.S. Drought as an Opportunity to Test Corn Yields

The drought that is plaguing across the Midwestern U.S. has many farmers in the region on edge. But as the old saying goes, in every crisis there is opportunity. Monsanto Co. is capitalizing on the less than desirable growing conditions to demonstrate that their seeds can withstand drought conditions creating a comparison between them and their competitors. Monsanto seeks to win over new customers who may see the company’s seeds outperforming their competitors.

“Our genetics tend to do well in warm, dry conditions” says Hugh Grant, Chief Executive Officer for Monsanto Co.

The returns are already starting to trickle in. Monsanto’s third-quarter earnings climbed 35 percent, which surpassed predictions as corn seed rose to a record high. Since drought conditions became evident corn futures have surged 28 percent since June 15.The drought won’t impede on Monsanto’s advancement as it plans to invest in more tractor technology that uses data on seed varieties and soil conditions to boost yields. One can only hope that both farmers and agriculture companies will take the drought situation and turn it into an opportunity to be innovative. What else do they have to loose?

Video: How Can We Grow More Food With Less Impact?

For over two decades, Dr. Mitloehner has been at the forefront of research on how animal agriculture affects our air and our climate. With deep expertise in emissions and volatile organic compounds, his work initially focused on air quality in regions like California’s Central Valley—home to both the nation’s richest agricultural output and some of its poorest air quality.

In recent years, methane has taken center stage in climate discourse—not just scientifically, but politically. Once a topic reserved for technical discussions about manure management and feed efficiency, it has become a flashpoint in debates over sustainability, regulation, and even the legitimacy of livestock farming itself.

Dr. Frank Mitloehner, Professor and Air Quality Specialist with the CLEAR Center sits down with Associate Director for Communications at the CLEAR Center, Joe Proudman.