Thanks folks. I'd seen that eHow link before, but it's worth a shot (:
And as for genetically altered corn (ooh, tasty O.o) all Missouri Meerschaum does is grow corn with smaller kernels so the cob is thicker, I believe. I think field corn might be a good bet for me.
http://pipesmagazine.com/blog/pipe-m...aum/#more-2939