It’s official. EPA and USDA have both evaluated Dow Chemical’s new line of 2,4-D-resistant seeds, Enlist — and have approved both the seeds and the accompanying pesticide formulation for market.

This is a turning point, not just for grain production but for food production in the U.S. and internationally. The introduction of Enlist corn and soybeans, and the widespread adoption of this new seed line, will have pervasive impacts on farmer livelihoods, public health and control of our food system.

This is a decision that our regulators should not have taken lightly. And yet, it seems they did. Both USDA and EPA set up an intentionally narrow scope for evaluating the potential harms posed by 2,4-D resistant crops — one that ignored the biggest problems and held up irrelevant factors as evidence of safety.

As small farmers brace for the impact of pesticide drift that will hit with the introduction of Enlist crops, it is time for us to look forward. It’s time to demand a regulatory system that takes a rigorous approach to pesticides and genetically engineered crops, one that values small farmers as much as industrial agriculture — and public health as much as corporate profit.

Excerpt above from article dated 10/15/14 on Pesticide Action Network (PANNA). Click here to read the full story.

What Can You Do to Help?

Farm and Ranch Freedom Alliance joined other organizations across the country in a a fight to protect community health and farmer livelihood from the immediate threat of widespread 2,4-D use.

But we’re also working toward a larger effort to support independent family farmers and protect a healthy and productive food supply for American consumers, by promoting common sense policies for local, diversified agricultural systems. And we can’t do it without you! Your financial support — even $5 or $10 — will help keep us in the fight.

Help us continue to make sure that the voice of independent agriculture is heard loud and clear. We are very grateful for all that you do, and your financial support in any amount will make a difference.

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