THE genetically-modified debate has been sparked again this week with the discovery of rouge GM canola traces in roadside weeds.
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The find follows objections about GM wheat trials in Horsham, planned for November.
However, trialling genetically-modified crops could have a huge benefit to Wimmera farmers.
These trials need to happen if agriculture wants to move forward as an industry.
Drought or frost-resistant crops could be created, which would mean better seasons and more profits for our farmers.
GM crops could also mean farmers might not need to use as many chemicals, meaning healthier, more chemical-free food.
For the consumer, there are potential health benefits and people with coeliac disease might eventually be able to eat wheat.
The downside of GM crops is that there is the risk of contamination.
Trials have to make sure they won’t impact on neighbouring properties because every farmer has the right to decide what he or she grows.
However, the risk is minimised with wheat because it is a self-pollinating plant, unlike canola.
There are also marketing issues, with objectors saying that no-one wants to buy GM crops.
But, at the end of the day, we don’t really know what GM is capable of until it’s been extensively trialled.
One day we might be able to create something that will benefit us all.
Farmers have said GM canola was a flop, but who knows what the future of agriculture could look like with GM wheat.
