Sanet Post, Jim Wright, November 15, 1996

Hi Bill,

I found much to agree with in your message regarding genetically engineered crops. However, I am reluctant to reject all genetic engineering introductions out of hand, since the potential social benefits of some of them are so great. I believe that they need a great deal more examination than they are getting however. As a farmer, I've been struggling with the question of whether to use Round-up tolerant canola next year. It's not, in my view, a black and white issue but a complex trade off of positive and negative points.

At the risk of opening up a can of worms here is the decision-making process that I used to make the provisional decision to try Round-up tolerant canola. (May change by spring). I welcome comments.

As a farmer I used the following criteria to evaluate the question. (I've summarised for space).

How does it affect the ecosystem?
****Given my best information, using Roundup is better than using the other chemicals that would be used (proven hazardous qualities) or fallowing, and doesn't have irreversible consequences. Pass.

Does it address the weak link in my production system, which I judge to be weed control?
*****Given my best information, using Roundup tolerant canola provides the best solution for my weed control problems. Pass, subject to continuing research.

Does it address the cause of the problem, rather than a symptom?
****Doubtful, RT canola is definitely a "quick fix" rather than a long term solution. But a total reorientation of my production system is a risky, costly, slow process,which I judge can't be implemented next season. Reluctant pass.

Is this the most cost effective solution to the weak link (weed problem).
****Given my analysis of the costs/benefits this solution has the same cost, with more effective results. Were it not for Monsanto's outrageous licensing fees the c/b ratio would be better. Pass

Is this an expenditure that uses capital generated from the productivy of the farm (i.e. directly from renewable solar energy) or is it capital that is borrowed from the future. Does it build infrastructure on my farm that will provide me with future wealth.
****No on both counts. Fail. Fail.

Is this consistent with my own goals/beliefs?
***Not really. But it's better than the alternatives that I am likely to undertake. Partial pass. (continue to work on sustainable solution)

Is this socially acceptable/responsible?
****This the toughest one, because the issue is very complex, trading off benefits which are potentially large, but speculative, against risks that are also largely speculative. Of the options that are realistically available to me I judge that this is better for society as a whole (this time only!) than other solutions (fallowing, alternate chemicals, preharvest Round-up, moving to eliminate chemical inputs immediately,) Provisional pass. Keep looking at the issue.

And finally,
People who recognise this decision making system will recognise imperfections in the way I've applied it. I'm working on it. :-)

Bye for now
Jim

Jim Wright
Box 129
Lougheed Alberta Canada
T0B 2V0
403 386-2479