Market Sensitivity and Methods to Ensure Tolerance of Biotech and Non-biotech Alfalfa Production Systems

Roundup-Ready® alfalfa was released in June of 2005, the first trait to be commercialized in alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) using biotechnology. Traditional alfalfa varieties will likely be grown in close proximity to these new biotech varieties. While most users will probably not be sensitive to the presence of these varieties, other markets (particularly export and organic) will request hay that is free of the biotech traits. The acreage estimated to be sensitive to this trait is estimated to be less than 3-5% in the US, but some regions, markets, and growers will be more sensitive than others. Methods to assure identity and preservation of non-biotech alfalfa include understanding the potential for gene flow, reducing feral alfalfa, and improved methods to maintain commercial identity, including the use of test strips which confirm the absence or presence of RR hay. The potential for gene flow from alfalfa hay field to hay field differs significantly from gene flow in seed production due to a series of ‘environmental filters’ under forage production which are likely to prevent significant gene movement. Successful coexistence of biotech and non-biotech alfalfa hay for sensitive markets should be feasible with a higher degree of awareness of these issues and several simple management steps.