Canadian organic growers join U.S. court case

Friday, January 27, 2012

by SUSAN MANN

A Canadian-based organization of organic supporters is taking part in the first phase of a court case in the United States seeking to limit biotechnology giant Monsanto’s right to sue farmers if their products are contaminated with genetically modified seed.

Arnold Taylor, an organic farmer and board member of Canadian Organic Growers, will represent thousands of organic farmers across Canada at the oral arguments being heard by Judge Naomi Buchward of the Federal District Court of Southern New York. It’s being heard in New York City on Jan. 31, a press release from the Canadian Organic Growers says.

The lawsuit was filed in March 2011 by the Public Patent Foundation, a non-profit legal services organization on behalf of 36 North American farm organizations.

After the oral arguments, Judge Buchward will decide if the case has merit and can proceed.

Canadian Organic Growers is a national membership-based education and networking organization representing farmers, gardeners and consumers. BF