Because many informed growers view genetically modified crops (GMOs) as the greatest potential threat to ecological agriculture (and perhaps human & environmental health), Know Your Farmer Alliance has initiated a Big Island wide “GMO Free Zone” campaign.

Created originally in Europe with great grassroots success, one simply signs a “pledge” saying they will not knowingly grow genetically modified plants or crops on their land.  This pledge may be used legislatively to show Hawai`i County & State politicians a groundswell of opposition to the introduction of all varieties of genetically modified fruits and vegetables and their outrageous “THIS IS OURS” patents.  We are already having to deal with the contamination of the genetic papaya that was promised to be kept in check.  Now is the time to keep other un-recallable monopoly produce and their unannounced open-air tests off our island!

WE have initiated a similar pledge program on the big Island. To date we have signed pledges from many of our Island farmers and gardners. Once the pledged is signed a pin is placed on a large map of Hawaii to designate where the farm or garden is. It is fun to see the number of pins grow, In fact in some areas the entire area is "pinned" andnew ppledges have a hard time squeezing theirs in.  It is heartening to know that we are standing shoulder to shoulder in opposition to these unwanted organisms in our environment.

As an option the participant can then purchase a 6"x9" weatherproof sign to display on his property to show his support.  Cost is $2 (plus shipping).

A 72 page informative book by Hawai`i Seed

Will help to answer any questions you might have on the present state of GMO's in Hawaii.  "Facing Hawaii's Future; Harvesting Essential Information about GMO's."  is Just one of many projects of Hawai`i SEED." their mission is to educate the public about the risks posed by genetically engineered organisms and  they are dedicated to promoting diverse, local, healthy and ecological food and farming that supports real food security for the Hawaiian Islands. 

This book is available for $5 (plus shipping) through the Know Your Farmer Alliance or contact Hawai`i SEED www.hawaiiseed.org.

If you are interested in participating in the GMO Free Zone program, contact Geoff Rauch at lynhowe1946@yahoo.com