• Last Chance to Stop Genetically-Engineered Alfalfa

    Date: 2010.03.03 | Category: Animals and Bugs, Environment, Food, Health, Natural & Green Living | Tags:

    Stop Genetically Engineered Alfalfa and Protect Organic Food!

    GE Alfalfa “threatens the very fabric of the organic industry.”
    - George Siemon, Organic Valley cooperative CEO

    Dear Farm Friends,

    Today is critical for protecting organic agriculture!

    The USDA recently released a draft of its Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) on Genetically Engineered “Roundup Ready” Alfalfa, and if we don’t speak up, it’s clear they intend to approve its commercial use. We can’t let this happen.

    You may not think about alfalfa much when you’re drinking organic milk, but organic alfalfa is important to organic farming, as a nourishing animal feed that’s also a nitrogen-fixing soil enhancer. Once GE alfalfa is introduced, its contamination of non-GE plants – including organic – is all but inevitable. And because alfalfa is fed to dairy cows and other livestock, contamination puts organic dairy and meat at risk, too! Learn more

    In their EIS, the USDA states “There is no evidence that consumers care about GE contamination of organic alfalfa.” We know that you do care. Let’s not be Monsanto’s guinea pigs!

    Now is your chance to be heard. Tell the USDA to protect organic food and farmers from GE contamination, and NOT TO APPROVE Monsanto’s GE Alfalfa. The comment period ends TODAY, March 3, at 5pm Eastern time.

    There’s been a lot of response already from concerned Farm Friends – thank you! – but USDA still needs to hear from as many people as possible. Tell your friends! You CAN make a difference. Tell the USDA that you care about GE contamination and your right to GMO-free organic foods.

    Learn more and get talking points on our website. Then take action at the Center for Food Safety, or submit comments online to the USDA directly. (USDA link is http://www.regulations.gov/search/Regs/home.html#submitComment?R=0900006480a6b7a1)

    After you write, let us know at rootstock@organicvalley.coop.

    Thanks for all your support for family farmers and a sustainable organic future for all!

    Sincerely,
    The Farmers and Staff of Organic Valley Family of Farms

    from Organic Valley