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Seed politics

USDA – Stop the release of GE trees!

The USDA has opened a public comment period about whether or not to allow “field trials” of genetically engineered eucalyptus trees in southeastern US. What the USDA decides in this case will set a precedent for other GE tree species. Pine and poplar are in the works, and one of the major traits the eucalyptus are being bred for is cold hardiness. I urge all US citizens that have any concern about a healthy diverse ecosystem and the continued survival of native species (plant, animal and fungi) in the future to read more at the Global Justice Ecology Project and sign the petition. This is truly a Pandora’s box situation – if “field trials” are allowed, pollen and seed will be released into the environment.
The public comment period closes February 18, 2010.

2 Responses to “USDA – Stop the release of GE trees!”

  1. Mike says:

    Thank you for sharing this information. What a foolish and dangerous experiment they continue to conduct with all of this genetic manipulation. I can’t help but feel that all of this will be greatly regretted in the not to distant future causing not only a massive lack of plant diversity but possibly a collapse of the entire already questionable food system as we know it. Of course this could/will have a direct impact on those of us who attempt to save their own seeds and grow their own foods as well.

  2. gayle says:

    I’m always horrified by what they think is okay to release out into the world with their field trials. You can’t take back pollen. Ever.

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