Dow AgroSciences announces the U.S. commercial launch of PowerCore trait technology, a new insect trait that protects corn plants from above-ground insects.

PowerCore trait provides broad-spectrum control of damaging above-ground corn pests by incorporating a pyramid of three different Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) protein, each one targeting insects differently. The three different modes of action offered by these proteins reduce potential insect resistance to the technology. 

Mycogen Seeds, Brodbeck Seeds, Dairyland Seed, Pfister Seeds and Prairie Brand Seed will offer PowerCore trait technology in new, high-yielding genetics within their corn portfolios.

“PowerCore trait technology is the latest advancement in the Dow AgroSciences portfolio of innovative pest control solutions to help growers manage above-ground insects and protect yields,” says Brian Barker, general manager, U.S. Seeds at Dow AgroSciences. “PowerCore is a proven technology that growers in Brazil and Argentina have used successfully since 2012. Its commercial introduction for U.S. growers exemplifies the company’s commitment to creating targeted pest management solutions that will help growers protect crop yields.”

PowerCore protects corn against damage from European corn borer, southwestern corn borer, corn earworm, western bean cutworm, black cutworm, fall armyworm and sugarcane borer, which can cause significant crop damage and yield loss.

PowerCore complements SmartStax trait technology in the Dow AgroSciences corn trait portfolio to offer growers another option in the fight against insect damage.

Entomologists across the Corn Belt, especially in regions with heavy insect pressure, say a pyramid approach will provide growers improved control of above-ground pests with greater technology durability.

Insect Resistance Management guidelines for PowerCore include a 5 percent structured refuge in the Corn Belt and a 20 percent structured refuge in the Cotton Belt. A 5 percent structured refuge allows for in-bag refuge options to be available as PowerCore Refuge Advanced in 2017.