Genetically Modified Corn Helps U.S. Farmers Anticipate Near-Record Harvest Amid Drought

Despite early drought conditions, advancements in drought-tolerant genetically modified corn varieties have led U.S. farmers to predict the second-largest corn harvest in history. July rains helped the corn crop during its crucial developmental phase, countering earlier seasonal challenges. This surge in production may boost domestic reserves as demand for U.S. corn exports decreases, given Brazil’s booming harvest. Corn prices saw an 18% drop in July from late-June levels. If analysts’ predictions hold true, the U.S. could harvest up to 15.135 billion bushels this year, just short of the 2016 record. The resilience of the modified corn crops this season, making up over 90% of the U.S. crop, has been highlighted by many, including farmer Drew DeSutter from Illinois.