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Murashige, Laura
From: Lois-ellin Datta [datta@kona.net] _
Sent: Sunday, April 05, 2009 1:49 PM 2009 APR Pn 8 4 77
To: counciltestimony@co.hawaii.hi.us
Cc: kopepua@gmail.com t. L
Subject: Support for Resolution 81-09; Opposition to GMO Pre-emotion Bill HB 1226 GUN7 e II= H" Wri[]
Honorable Council Members
Thank you for focusing on support for our local Island economy and on maintaining Hawaii County authority for
matters so affecting our Island.
This testimony SUPPORTS Resolution 81-09 introduced by Councilman Pete Hoffmann. This resolution opposes
the GMO Pre-emption Bill (HB 1226).
My reasons for respectfully requesting your support of HB 81-09 are two-fold.
First, I am a Kona coffee farmer. OK, 1200 trees isn't a forest but it is 100% Kona, 100% certified organic.
Growing and harvesting this coffee contributes to our economy in large part because Kona coffee is a recognized
and respected product, and because 100% organic earns higher prices per pound cherry. Like many small,
diversified farmers, the margin is small by the time I pay for organic fertilizer, pruning help, and harvesting help.
HB 1226 risks---almost guarantees---contamination of this specialty coffee status. GMO documentably
contaminates, in part because bees fertilize and they don't read instructions! Please protect our precious Kona
coffee!
Second, home rule is a precious principle. HB 1226 is backed by mainland chemical and bio-engineering
companies, among other groups. Our County Council, not our state legislature, should be mak decisions about
GMO or not on our Island. Please make your voices---and our voices---heard against HB 1226.
Thank you for consideration of my testimony supporting Resolution 81-09.
Lois-ellin Datta
datta@ilhawaii.net
78-7054 Kamehameha III
Kailua Kona, HI 96740
Owl's Nest Farm
F Road, Captain Cook
Comm. No. 115% .43
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eete9 AM
Ref. To- firm
Ref. [late APR 0 8 2009
4/6/2009