U.S. EPA extends comment period on corn rootworm resistance

The U.S. EPA has extended the comment period on a proposed framework intended to delay the corn rootworm from becoming resistant to Bt pesticides produced by genetically engineered corn.

The proposed framework includes requirements on the manufacturers of Bt corn:

•    In areas at risk of corn rootworm resistance, require crop rotation, use of corn varieties containing more than one Bt toxin, or other Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies and stewardship for corn rootworm.
•    Develop and implement a strategy to better detect and address areas of resistance as they emerge.
•    Use different and improved scientific tests and sampling requirements to study the problem and more reliably ensure that resistance to the Bt corn toxin is identified.

This extension is in response to several stakeholders requests for additional time to develop comments. By extending the comment period EPA hopes to ensure that all stakeholders have ample opportunity to participate. Stakeholders are encouraged to offer input on specific SAP recommendations, including alternative approaches or counter proposals to address corn rootworm resistance management issues raised by the panel.