November 3, 2006

US discovers two drought-resistant soy lines 
 

Recent soy checkoff-sponsored research might give US soy farmers another tool to manage one of the weather challenges plaguing the industry--drought.

The discovery of two new lines of drought-resistant soy was more than just an insurance policy against drought conditions, pointed out Tom Sinclair, University of Florida researcher. The lines would increase yields even in years with no obvious drought.

The lines yielded higher than commercial yields during their trial. Therefore, they could be incorporated into the breeding programmes of seed companies soon.

The 12-year research project was unique in that it combined physiology research with breeding efforts. Such an approach was unusual due to the complexity and long-term commitment required.

According to Sinclair, farmer checkoff funds were crucial to the research. Most projects with such a lengthy time frame; that integrate multiple disciplines, such as plant physiology and breeding; and that take place at multiple universities, usually had to struggle to find funding.

The soy checkoff supported research that helped farmers increase yields and become more productive as a result, said Ken Dalenberg, United Soybean Board (USB) production chair and a soy farmer.