HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0271.526 2012-2014 Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK ll
COVN nr 1-4
From: Leslie Nugent <Irae.nugent @gmail.comion It _ � ps 3, 59
Sent: Monday, July 01, 2013 8:16 AM
To: counciltestimony @co.hawaii.hi.us
Subject: Support of Bill 79
Dear Councilpersons,
As a resident of Hawaii Island I stand in support of Bill 79. I recognize the knowledge of ecological, that which
works in harmony with nature, and sustainable agriculture that was cultivated by our Hawaiian ancestors. I
support the prohibition of Genetically Modified Organisms on Hawaii Island as it is direct action to protect the
health and integrity of our land, our water, and our people.
Please don't use our land as a laboratory. Growing GE crops is expensive and heavily dependent on non-
renewable resources, it requires large inputs of fuel, chemical fertilizers and pesticides, and uses large quantities
of water. GE growing systems show up poorly in comparison to organic and bio-diverse growing systems when
using the concept of"triple bottom line" which considers economic success along with social and
environmental health. As a farmer I have economic concerns regarding the liability for contamination of my
crops by GMO, the loss of markets due to increased GMO crops, and the high cost of of testing to ensure my
crops are not affected by GMO. I am in support of Bill 79 as it aims to prevent the loss of heirloom seed variety
lines and promote the ability to save clean seed.
As a consumer I am concerned that GMO foods have not received adequate safety testing by the government
regulatory agencies. I want to see scientific studies with rigorous public review of the cumulative effects of
eating GE food on human and environmental health before allowing these crops to be grown in Hawaii. I
support Bill 79 and the precautionary principle that mandates caution and conservation when information is
uncertain or unknown, especially when there is a potential risk to long-term human and environmental health.
Let's work together to support our farmers, families, and communities to connect to sustainable and profitable
farming system that value our delicate ecosystems, honor our rich cultural heritage, and preserve the land for
future generations.
Mahalo for hearing our voices and showing your support for Bill 79, and the future of Hawaii Island.
Leslie Nugent
Comm. No. c2 7/. 524,
Ref.To: P/l .SH re-
Ref. Date JUL 9 2 11.113