Re: Food for thought

**Miranda Smith m*@tagoresmith.com**

Duane,

I agree that one must be open-minded and I also agree that many 
adherents of organic growing exaggerate some--but only some--of the 
inherent dangers of working with chemicals. However, in the case of 
genetic manipulation, there is enough evidence of genetic migration to 
cause concern. Mayo has her facts straight when she says:

"The DNA from Terminator plants can change the DNA 
in open-pollinated strains, as has been  shown in 
corn varieties in the heart of Mexico and in the Percy  
Schmeiser case in Canada.  My question stands:   Since 
Terminator technology poses danger to the "originals", 
is risking their loss(even should their genes be needed 
for more experimentation by our agribusiness "friends") 
worth allowing Terminator free reign?

That's why I don't think there can be any arugment about this. There are 
many technologies and substances that aren't properly tested before 
being released from the lab--some of them are totally benign, some are 
injurious  to only a few individuals, and some are generally 
harmful--but the effects aren't lways immediate or visible. As an 
"organic zealot," which is another word for "conservative," I would 
prefer it if this particular technology was not released into the world. 
The potential for harm is too great to take the risk.

Oh, and as for "stealing" seeds--it's a lot of work to dehybridize a 
plant. Not only does it take years and years, it also requires good 
cultural, observational, and record keeping skills. I seriously doubt 
that farmers in ANY area are interested in doing that on a scale that 
could possibly jeopardize the financial well-being of a seed company. I 
think they're safe from the kind of "stealing" that the organic zealots, 
even those who are farmers, engage in.

Miranda Smith

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