In the midst of the nation's worst drought in 50 years, two of
the world's largest agricultural companies are testing corn that
is bred and genetically engineered to withstand low rainfall
levels. Monsanto's DroughtGard hybrid corn -- the first-ever
hybrid genetically engineered for drought tolerance -- was
planted this spring in initial field trials. Sowed amid
sufficient rain and optimism for a record-breaking crop yield,
the company has encountered a close to worst-case scenario to
test its product. In addition, DuPont Pioneer's hybrid AQUAmax
corn -- developed using advanced breeding techniques rather than
biotechnology -- debuted last year with five different versions.
This year, the company is launching six more with drought
tolerance traits combined with pest resistance and other high-
yielding attributes. But the drought ripping through the Midwest
is persistent and widespread. Despite positive feedback from
farmers, the companies admit that cutting-edge technology can
only go so far. "We know there's