ARTICLE: GMOs: It all comes down to science

The following is an excerpt of an article on the Litchfield Independent Review. This is the second of a two-part series on genetically modified foods. This week's article presents the views of area crop farmers who support genetically modifying crops.

Mary Jo and Karl Lamb are crop farmers in Renville County. Yielding sweet corn, field corn and soy beans, the Lambs have a pro-GMO stance on this agricultural practice.

Genetically modified organisms, or GMOs, are crops developed through genetic engineering, a more precise method of plant breeding, the Lambs believe. Genetic engineering, also referred to as biotechnology, allows plant breeders to take what they deem a desirable trait found in nature and transfer it from one plant or organism to the plant they want to improve, as well as make a change to an existing trait in a plant they are developing.

Some examples of traits commonly transferred include resistance to insects and disease and tolerance to herbicides that allow farmers to better control weeds.

“Not every seed put in the ground is genetically modified,” Mary Jo said. “People need to understand that there’s a reason why they are used, and it’s completely safe.”

The Lambs, who live south of Cosmos and farm in the Hector area, are among millions of farmers who share the opinion that genetically modified crops are a benefit to their line of work. Using science as their guide, the Lambs look at GMOs as catalyst for providing the best crop for the consumption of their customers. The results of research and design in GMOs, they said, provide the ideal crop, and they wouldn’t have it any other way.

“It’s amazing that some smart scientist peeled the best parts of plants and made the best plant that there is,” Mary Jo said. “That’s all it is. Better, stronger, healthier crops.”

And while some have differing opinions in the GMO debate, the Lambs’ frustration stems from what they consider to be a lack of proper information.

Read the entire article to find out more about the Lambs and their farm.