Monsanto’s pollination investigation is well on track

The first phase of the investigation into the pollination problems in three Monsanto white-maize hybrid seed cultivars has been completed, according to Kobus Lindique, MD of Monsanto sub-Saharan Africa.
“The issue was a traditional seed-production technique used with hybrid breeding,” explained Lindique. “We reversed the male and female cross of the three hybrids in 2007 to maximise seed-production. This is a common practice which existed before the development of biotechnology.”
“The three hybrids produced through this particular female inbreed have experienced variable pollen production. We will make the necessary changes. Pollination variation isn’t uncommon and can be influenced by factors such as weather or agronomic practice. In some cases seed-production methods can also lower pollination.”
Some 400 farmers have been visited or telephoned by Monsanto representatives over the past five weeks. The initial indication was some 120 000ha were affected, but detailed investigations have shown only some 75 000ha were affected to a greater or lesser extent.
Lindique said while there is variation, the average pollination rate is about 90% resulting in yield reduction of some 10%. Some fields were worse affected.
The next phase will involve meetings between the individual farmers and the company over the next two months. Monsanto is committed to compensating farmers for yield loss. – Annelie Coleman