Tell USDA to Protect GMO-Free Producers - Comment by March 4th

Dear Folks,

This is so important I am going to post here and in my newsletter, so I apologize if you are signed up to receive both for the duplication.


Tell USDA to Protect GMO-Free Producers  
Submit Comments on Proposed Coexistence with GMOs 
Deadline midnight Tuesday - March 4, 2014 

In 2011, the USDA convened an advisory committee to discuss the issue. The topic was labeled "coexistence," based on the assumption that GMO and non-GMO crops can coexist in the same area.

The committee's recommendation????   The advisory committee recommended that farmers buy crop insurance to cover the costs of unwanted GMO contamination - placing the burden squarely and totally on the non-gmo farmer.

USDA is now asking for comments from the public on the issue of coexistence. Tell them it's time to take steps to prevent contamination and put the costs where they belong!

Here is the link to post your comment to USDA
http://www.regulations.gov/#!submitComment;D=APHIS-2013-0047-0061

The Farm to Consumer Legal Defense Fund has some talking points and other information to help you form your comment.

http://www.farmtoconsumer.org/news_wp/?p=14654#talk
 
FYI,

Here is the comment I left:

Currently the burden of protecting non-GMO crops, including organic, from GMO contamination is placed on the farm which is contaminated.  This is at its base totally unfair.

1.   Those who choose to plant GMO crops should absorb the full costs of their actions.  It is their responsibility to prevent contamination just as a pet owner is obligated to keep their dog or other animal from getting out and doing damage to people, property or other pets.

2.   The current USDA recommendation that non-gmo farmers get and pay for crop insurance to cover the cost of contamination is like asking a family to get medical coverage to protect them from the vicious dog next door.

Specifically, I urge the USDA to:

1.    Implement mandatory contamination prevention measures to protect non-GMO agriculture.
2.    Stop allowing the planting of GMO crops whose pollen is easily spread long distances, such as alfalfa and sugar beets.
3.    Place the costs for contamination on the companies that benefit from GMOs, not on the farmers that are trying to avoid GMOs.

Thank you.

Please pass this on to anyone you think has an interest in food safety and shopping options.


-- Catherine, The Herb Lady