How can we feed the world?

    Hello again.  We are concerned about world hunger as Christians and farmers.  You recall from my posts that the corn production in the United States was 1.1 billion bushels short of August estimates.  There will always be a variation in yields from environmental factors from one year to another, we have been fortunate that as a whole genetic improvements responsible for higher yields have overcome the yield loss of locations with poorer weather. The last year analysts were too confident of trendline yields increasing and the ability of new hybrids to overcome all challenges. 
   How can we feed the world?  The improvements in genetics of our grains will allow corn to be grown on more acres.  Drought tolerance in corn has improved by selecting hybrids that loose less moisture through their leaves as well as improved root systems.  By reducing the amount of rainfall required to grow corn, the traditional corn belt can be expanded, we may plant 92.5 million acres in corn this spring compared to 64 million acres in 1969.  Yields per acre have improved three fold in the last 60 years from 50 bu. per acre to over 150 bu. per acre and continue to improve at the rate of 1.7 bu. per acre per year.  So yes we can make great strides in feeding the world from our farms. 
   How can we feed the world?  We can also offer our help to all nations in increasing their knowledge and skills in agriculture.  Foods Resource Bank is one of the ways we can do that.  By partnering with organizations around the world and helping, this knowledge can allow other nations to experience the increased production we have achieved.
   How can we feed the world?  We can also pray for the many people living in countries with political turmoil.  The spread of democracy will also allow those who are oppressed and or displaced a new chance to improve their lives and with support from all nations build on becoming self sufficient.  Let us offer them our prayers, support, and cooperation as they seek a peaceful resolution to their problems.  
                                                Serving together, Dean Lundeen