Abstract:
Over the past few years, the number of seed arbitration cases in Arkansas has sharply increased due to complaints involving Roundup Ready�soybean cultivars. Soybean farmers have requested reimbursement for the losses resulting from failure of the Roundup Ready� soybean to germinate and produce adequate stands. This transgenic soybean is tolerant of the herbicide, Roundup, and costs about 20%more when compared to non-Roundup Ready cultivars. Seed dealers blamed the extremely hot and dry weather conditions near planting time for stand failures. Farmers argued that other Roundup Ready� cultivars planted at the same time produced adequate stands. While the Arbitration Committee of the Arkansas State Plant Board attempted to settle these cases without the added inconvenience and cost of court, the vast majority of their judgments have been rejected. The case was used as a teaching tool in an upper level crop management course to familiarize students with the interview, reporting, and arbitration process. Additionally, students gained experience in collaboration efforts, as the project fostered both individual and team efforts.
Keywords:
soybean seed arbitration, Arkansas, case study
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