FORT COLLINS, Colo. (AP) — Colorado scientists are looking at genetically modified crops as a way farmers can beat the drought.

Colorado State University professor Phil Westra says attitudes are changing toward crops that have been altered to resist drought and pests as harvests decline and costs rise. Opponents say not enough is known about the health effects of altered crops and more studies are needed.

According to KMGH-TV (http://tinyurl.com/8kzngmu ), corn and sugar beets, two of the largest crops in Colorado, are already genetically altered and used by many farmers.

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Information from: KMGH-TV, http://www.thedenverchannel.com