Poster: Biotech risk assessment

Abs # 919: Ecological Assessment Considerations for Genetically Modified Crops

Presenter:	Horak, Michael J., michael.j.horak@monsanto.com
Authors	Horak, Michael J. (A) (B)  Nickson, Thomas E. (A) (B)  Pester, Todd A. (A) (B)  Rosenbaum, Eric W. (A) (B)  Kendrick, Daniel L. (A) (B)  Woodrum, Carrie L. (A) (B)
Affiliations:	(A): Monsanto Company (B): Ecological Technology Center

Prior to commercialization, data are needed to assess the potential risks associated with biotechnology crops under their intended use. Ecological assessment considers and evaluates the biotech crop itself and the implications of trait transfer via pollen-mediated gene flow. Information in the scientific literature and experimental studies are used to initiate the assessment process. Assessments are considered on a case-by-case basis, are comparative and consider the crop, the introduced trait, the geographic region of introduction, and the occurrence of related species. In general, the biotech crop is characterized to assess for biologically meaning differences when compared to a conventional control. Information from the literature, combined with the data generated in the characterization is then used to consider: 1) whether the modified plant has a greater weed tendency than the unmodified plant; 2) whether the trait would confer a selective advantage if transferred to a related species; and 3) the potential of the modified plant to become more of a plant pest.