
Heirlooms of Tomorrow OSA is often asked which seeds are appropriate for the new agricultural systems that many of us are developing: systems that foster conservation, diversity, resiliency, and true sustainability. This article aims to answer that question while clarifying the principles guiding our plant breeding work.
Take Action by July 11 on New GE Corn On May 11, 2011, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) released a draft Environmental Assessment (EA) on the first-ever genetically engineered (GE), drought tolerant corn, MON 87460. USDA is currently accepting comments on this proposal, due July 11, 2011.
U.S. Supports Global Guidance on GE Food Labeling The U.S. has long opposed a guidance document from the Codex Alimentarius Commission (made up of the world’s food safety agencies) on the labeling of genetically engineered ingredients. But today, at the annual summit in Geneva, more than 100 countries, including the U.S., achieved consensus on the guidance after two decades.
Organic Seed Growers Conference: Have You Weighed In? Your input and proposals will help shape what promises to be an exciting conference focused solely on strengthening community-based organic seed systems. Take this opportunity to share your research and ask timely questions of your organic seed community members.
Seed Stirrings in the Southeast Agricultural leaders from the Southeast recently convened to lay the groundwork for strengthening the region’s organic seed systems. Special interest was expressed in breeding for vegetables and cover crops adapted to agricultural conditions of the Southeast, cooperative seed development, and educational opportunities.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Ulm, MT: Kristina Hubbard presents on GMOs at the Timeless Seeds festival on July 16, 2011.
Richmond, CA: Jared Zystro presents “Seed Saving 101” in conjunction with the Richmond Grows Seed Lending Library on September 12, 2011.
Petaluma, CA: Jared Zystro presents “Seed Saving 101” at the Heirloom Expo on September 13 – 15, 2011.
Berkeley, CA: Jared Zystro presents “Seed Saving 201” at the Ecology Center on Tuesday October 4, 2011.