Corn from Wood Prairie Farm
To whom it may concern:
Founded in January of 2008, OSGATA develops, protects, and promotes the organic seed trade and its growers. Our goal is to assure that the organic community has access to excellent quality organic seed, free of contaminants and adapted to the diverse needs of local organic agriculture. The membership is comprised of organic farmers who produce seed crops, organic seed companies, and affiliate organizations that support organic farmers and organic food systems.
We are strongly opposed to the deregulation of MON 87460, because the corn pollen is known to be highly mobile and we have concerns that organic corn and seed crops will be contaminated. This contamination will result in market rejection of organic crops because organic consumers have clearly indicated that they expect organic crops to be free of GMO content. GMO contamination of organic seed constitutes irreparable harm to the organic seed industry and undermines the integrity of organic seed. Any detectable level is unacceptable, it damages the livelihoods of organic producers and eliminates consumer choice.
Unless and until the petitioner can demonstrate the ability to contain their GMO genetic pollution on the licensee’s side of the fence, their petition should not be approved.
Jim Gerritsen – President
Organic Seed Growers and Trade Association
