b'The Soybean Cyst Nematode is the worlds No. 1, yield-stealing pest.PHOTO: BASFDaum encourages a mindset of open-mindedness and flex-ibility. We started with the goal of finding a silver bullet, she says, but what we found was that if we combined cry proteins with native traits, thats a solutionand a really good one.Innovation is undefeated.Her experience illustrates the value of thinking outside the box and being willing to pivot as new information emerges. New solutions for old problems are always With the imminent commercial launch of Nemasphere,going to be a market-winning strategy. BASF is already looking to the future. Daum is excited about the ongoing research that will build on Nemaspheres foundation.Michael McCarvilleIm very involved and excited to be working on the next generation of traits, she says. This long-term view is critical to ensuring that solutions like Nemasphere can continue to adapt to evolving agricultural challenges.McCarville is equally enthusiastic about raising awareness among farmers as the launch approaches.BASFs Nemasphere represents a bold new chapter in People get fatigued about hearing about a problem withoutsoybean pest management. With a dedicated team, cutting-a solution, he says. Heres a way to re-engage and inject someedge technology, and a commitment to sustainable agriculture, energy into that conversation.this innovative trait is set to change the landscape for soybean As the team works toward the 2028 launch, they remain com- farmers not only in the United States but around the world. mitted to their ultimate goal: delivering a sustainable, effectiveAs Daum and McCarville look toward the future, they see a tool that will empower farmers to reclaim lost yields and buildworld where the battle against SCN is not just manageable but resilience against future challenges. winnableone trait at a time.SWDECEMBER 2024SEEDWORLD.COM /13'