August 3, 2004

VICTORY! TRINITY COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS VOTES TO Ban GENETICALLY ENGINEERED CROPS AND ANIMALS

Today Trinity County, California became only the second county in the nation to ban the growing of genetically engineered (GE) crops and animals. By a vote of 3-1, Trinity County Supervisors elected to ban GE crops and animals in an effort to protect Trinity’s local economy and environment.

The proposed ordinance is supported by a broad spectrum of Trinity residents, including people in commercial agricultural, businesses, home gardeners, nurseries, social workers, investment, computer and health professionals, housewives, students, church people, teachers, activists, government employees, storeowners.

“Today’s vote is in keeping with the tradition in Trinity County over 25 years of passing ordinances to protect the well being of its citizens,“ said Susan Bower, local farmer and ban proponent.

“Trinity’s vote for a sustainable and sound agriculture economy is an important first step in reclaiming control of our food supply, �said Doug Mosel, GMO Free Mendocino coordinator and spokesperson for the BioDemocracy Alliance. “This sends a clear message that local, safe production is the responsibility of all.�

Trinity County’s decision reflects a growing movement across America to defend local agriculture, biodiversity and human health. Four other California counties will vote in December to ban genetically engineered crops in their county, while dozens of counties across the country are advancing “GE Free� Zones.

“BioDemocracy is spreading throughout the California and the United States,� said Ryan Zinn, campaign director for the Organic Consumers Association and spokesperson for the BioDemocracy Alliance. “In light of the lack of regulation at both the federal and state agencies of these GE crops, Trinity ’s Supervisors had the foresight to create a ban to protect their citizens.�

Trinity County’s ban goes into effect 30 days from its passage.

Contact information for Trinity County representatives:
Drew Franklin: 530-623-2656
Joseph Bower: 530-628-5004