CORN GROWERS WIN ARGUMENT WITH EPA

The Environmental Protection Agency has agreed to allow Southeast Missouri growers to plant more genetically engineered "Bt" corn.

U.S. Sen. John Ashcroft praised the regulatory agency's decision. Ashcroft, a Republican, said it would put more money in the family budgets of Bootheel farmers.

"Our farmers are facing some tough financial challenges, and expanded use of Bt corn will mean higher farm income and greater resistance to crop pests," he said.

The EPA announced Friday that Bt corn with the Yieldguard gene can be used in 50 percent of planting. The policy applies to farms in Butler, Dunklin, Mississippi, New Madrid, Pemiscot, Scott and Stoddard counties, Ashcroft said.

The industry recommends farmers be allowed to plant 80 percent of the fields with Bt corn. The EPA previously had allowed only 5 percent.

The EPA said it would revisit its policy for the 2000 growing season.