Re: the August 21 article "Monsanto set to grow greenhouse crops here."
Monsantoโs intention to introduce genetically modified seeds into our area is disturbing and unwise. Tucson was just designated by UNESCO as a gastronomical city, an area with 4,000-year unbroken history of agriculture. Releasing GMOs into our environment could affect the ecosystem forever.
Many organic farmers objected to GMO seeds near their farms โ seeds inoculated with Roundup have intermingled and contaminated natural seeds. Traditional farming practice saves uncontaminated seeds for another planting. Monsantoโs seeds will not reproduce. Farmers must buy new Monsanto seeds yearly. Monsanto injects a gene allowing crops to take in more toxic Roundup, which is then absorbed in the food we eat. The Italian National Institute of Statistics found GMOs ineffective in solving world hunger. Sustainable farming practices will give greater yields and will not poison us, our food or our water.
Patricia Jackson
West side
