I asked my representative to the Idaho legislature how the state
would protect alfalfa growers from claims of seed theft by Monsanto
if GM pollen contaminated their fields. I don't know the legality of
my "sharing" the response from the state dept. of agriculture, but I
am adding the response. There was an attachment in Word 8, I
think. I don't think this list allows attachments, so if you want to
see it, contact me at melauter@earthlink.net. Margaret L
Representative King forwarded your email dated January 28, 2011, regarding
the recent decision by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Animal Plant
Health Inspection Service (USDA, APHIS) to deregulate alfalfa that has been
genetically engineered to be resistant to the herbicide commercially known
as Roundup. The concern you have expressed in your email is regarding
genetic drift from Roundup ready alfalfa into conventional alfalfa crops.
If genetic drift occurs, your stated concern is that a conventional
producer may be liable to Monsanto for a technology fee.
USDA, APHIS published along with its Record of Decision to deregulate
Roundup ready alfalfa a question and answer document that I am attaching
with this email. This Q & A document explains what USDA, APHIS intends to
do to address the concern you expressed to Representative King.
Your email, however, more specifically asked what the State of Idaho will
do to protect the concerns of conventional alfalfa growers. Under the
Idaho State Department of Agriculture's (ISDA) laws and rules it implements
there are no express or implied authorities to regulate, restrict or
prohibit the planting of genetically modified alfalfa within the state.
USDA, APHIS is responsible for providing regulatory oversight for
genetically modified organisms and recourse for harm, if any, will be found
in their laws and rules.
The ISDA strives to have a strong working relationship with USDA, APHIS.
Your concern regarding genetic drift will be passed on to our contacts at
USDA, APHIS.
Brian J. Oakey
Deputy Director
Idaho State Dept. of Agriculture
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