b'Bayer is making extensive use of UAV based LIDAR to derive crop canopy characteristics such as plant height and standability. These high throughput, high precision phenotypes are key elements to the development of new product concepts like short stature corn.ADAPTINGITS NO SECRETthat this past summer was a tough time for many farmers, particularly corn and soybean produc-ers. A severe lack of precipitation, extended periods of intense THE CORNheat and drought meant yields were down dramatically in many parts of the country.Its not a new phenomenon to have stresses such as drought and heat. However, what we think based on what climatologists BUSINESS FORtell us is that not only will there be a greater frequency of years with drought and heat stress, but the severity of these stresses will also be greater in extreme years compared to what we have experience in the past, explains Tim Setter, a professor of field crop science in Cornell Universitys soil and crop science section. A CHANGINGMore frequent heat and drought mean farmers are facing a great deal of risk because of these climate issues, he adds.Modifying and Adapting BusinessCLIMATE While abiotic stresses have forced many farmers to modify how they go about their business, they have also prompted many seed companies to adapt as a result of growing concerns over soil and drought issues.Most of the major companies, and many of the second tier companies, have been extensively breeding for improved stress As abiotic stressors becometolerance, particularly drought tolerance, Setter says. All the front of mind for growers, seedmajor companies have products now that are marketed and companies look at how to helpbranded to clearly illustrate that they are attempting to sell their products to farmers who are concerned about drought.product the corn crop.Jim Timlick Setter says those products include Syngentas Agrisure Artesian corn that offers season-long drought protection; Bayers DroughtGard; and Optimum AQUAmax drought-tolerant corn from Cortevas Pioneer seed brand.Theres evidence these new hybrids targeted for drier condi-tions have some definite advantages, Setter explains. They are capable of dealing with stresses, particularly during the very vulnerable stages of flowering and early kernel development.98/ SEEDWORLD.COMDECEMBER 2021'