Japanese media learn about biotech on the farm.

Missouri corn farmer Brent Hoerr hosted a team of Japanese reporters and bloggers at his near Palmyra to help media in the U.S.'s top export market learn more about the benefits of biotechnology and precision agriculture.

The meeting was arranged through a partnership with the Missouri Corn Merchandising Council and the U.S. Grains Council to promote U.S. corn abroad. The goal of the media visits in the Corn Belt was to provide factual, firsthand information to reporters and media outlets, who in turn can create forward-thinking dialogue among opinion leaders in this important export market.

IMPROVING COMMUNICATION: Palmyra corn grower Brent Hoerr (left) discusses biotechnology with members of Japanese media team visiting with the U.S. Grains Council. Photo Credit: Missouri Corn

Questions from the group centered around the use of certain seeds, what choices farmers have when it comes to seed selection and the merits of biotech seeds. Japan is the top market for U.S. corn, importing more than 450 million bushels this marketing year. In addition to visiting Hoerr's farm, the team also toured elevators, port facilities, Iowa State University's research facility and Monsanto.

Source: Missouri Corn Growers