270,000 Organic Farmers file suit against MONSANTO!!!

[Kristin]

Happy New Year! This is a great way to start!
http://www.growswitch.com/blog/2011/07/270000-organic-farmers-sue-monsanto/#.Tv_jeZjEdSU

From the Heart,
Wormhole

"More than 270,000 organic farmers are taking on corporate agriculture giant Monsanto in a lawsuit filed March 30. Led by the Organic Seed Growers and Trade Association, the family farmers are fighting for the right to keep a portion of the world food supply organic—and preemptively protecting themselves from accusations of stealing genetically modified seeds that drift on to their pristine crop fields."


NEW YORK – December 29, 2011 – In a development celebrated by the organic plaintiffs, Judge Naomi Buchwald announced yesterday that oral arguments on Monsanto’s motion to dismiss the Organic Seed Growers and Trade Association (OSGATA) et al v. Monsanto will be heard in federal district court January 31, 2012 in Manhattan. Judge Buchwald’s decision will establish if organic farmers are to see their day in court.

The eighty-three family farmers, small and family owned seed businesses, and agricultural organizations comprising the organic plaintiff group represent over 300,000 individuals. The landmark lawsuit, filed in March 2011, challenges the validity of Monsanto’s transgenic/GMO patents and seeks court protection for innocent family farmers who may become contaminated by Monsanto seed.

We are grateful that Judge Buchwald has agreed to our request to hear oral argument on the motion,” said Jim Gerritsen, President of lead plaintiff OSGATA. “Last August we submitted our written rebuttal and it made clear that Monsanto’s motion was without merit. Our legal team, from the Public Patent Foundation, is looking forward to orally presenting our position. The family farmers deserve their day in court. We are anxious that this case go to trial as soon as possible so that our innocent farmers may receive Court protection.”

OSGATA is a membership organization composed primarily of farmers and seed businesses. Their mission is to develop and protect the organic seed industry along with their growers. In an effort to raise funds, OSGATA has launched a “Farmers Travel Fund” enabling family farmers from the plaintiff group to attend the court proceedings and related events. See www.osgata.org.

Background information on the OSGATA v. Monsanto lawsuit may be found at www.osgata.org .

More information contact: press@osgata.org

About OSGATA: The Organic Seed Growers and Trade Association and lead plaintiff in this lawsuit is a not-for-profit agricultural organization that develops, protects, and promotes the organic seed trade and it’s growers, and assures that the organic community has access to excellent quality organic seed free of contaminants and adapted to the diverse needs of local organic agriculture. OSGATA’s membership is comprised of organic farmers, seed breeders, seed businesses, and affiliate organizations. www.osgata.org

[sandy]

Absolutely Awesome Wormhole>>>>>>>>>>.thanks for posting!

[Kristin]

Yeah, this one puts a smile on my face.

[Ria]

I hope the whole edifis comes crumberling down, Monsanto that is.
God bless the farmers

[Enquiring1]

Bloody Awesome! :fans:

I dont know if that turn out is going to make TPTB sweat, cause as we all know the courts are infested with cabal judges, but, dang I bet that is making them take some notice at the very least.

Also if turn outs like this happen on multiple fronts simultaneously then they will have a war of many fronts.

[bodhii71]

Kick em off the planet, lol.

[Wiremu2011]

Thanks for posting this. The People must win this battle over this evil Monsanto/ Codex. Make it viral so the farmers get as much support as possible.

[Kristin]

This is an important thread. We need to keep up on this. It is one of the most important issues facing us as a planet... OUR FOOD, THE EARTH, SUSTAINABILITY. Thank you for looking in. There are some really important lawsuits out there that need our attention and support now. Get out there and support the local farmers who are involved in this suit! Find out who they are and if they do not know about it, inform them. Inform your community, post this around the planet. Our future depends on it.
Form the Heart,
Wormhole

[grapevine]

Wonderful news - we all have to get behind them on this . . .

[blufire]

I feel sometimes like I throw cold water on so many threads . . . . . but while this sounds like a great occurrence and perhaps on the road to a victory it will go absolutely nowhere.

I could bring up many reasons but I’ll state only one here:

MONEY

Realistically how much money will these 270,000 farmers come up with?? It will be literally a drop in the bucket compared to the billions that back Monsanto.

My one dream for 2012 would be that we stop fighting the good fight within the parameters and rules that “they” have defined.

Be a rebel
Think outside the box
Be proactive and vigilant
Be sneaky
Be smart
Be patient
Unify and unite

[shamanseeker]

Real changes are started by a few people working together and being positive and persevering and who refuse to give up. We need to work together against these people who are ruining the planet and not just accept what they are doing. Fight the good fight and then at least we can say we tried!

[Cartomancer]

Yes. This is the best news in a long time. Someone needs to stand up to these scum. Thanks for the good New Years news!!!!

[toad]

Woot! Farmers should sue Monsanto when their crops get infested, instead of the other way around.

[Sierra]

Woot! Farmers should sue Monsanto when their crops get infested, instead of the other way around.

You'd think. It is such a perfect example of 1984 double think, that an international gargantuan sized corporation such as Monsanto can sit in court, and actually make it stick, that an organic farmer is stealing gmo seed to contaminate their own crops.

Excuse my French, but Christ on a crutch. Considering the simultaneous attack on our access to organic milk and vitamins, we can conclude two things: Organic milk and vitamins are good for you, and they want our health to deteriorate quickly. This is a pushed timetable. I mean--how dumb do they think we are, that we would not notice a multi-pronged, concerted strategy?

Congress: Can you tell with a 9% approval rating, what we feel about the job you are doing? You stink and sucketh.

And we pay taxes for this rape and pillage?

Sierra

[Kristin]

Woot! Farmers should sue Monsanto when their crops get infested, instead of the other way around.

You'd think. It is such a perfect example of 1984 double think, that an international gargantuan sized corporation such as Monsanto can sit in court, and actually make it stick, that an organic farmer is stealing gmo seed to contaminate their own crops.

Excuse my French, but Christ on a crutch. Considering the simultaneous attack on our access to organic milk and vitamins, we can conclude two things: Organic milk and vitamins are good for you, and they want our health to deteriorate quickly. This is a pushed timetable. I mean--how dumb do they think we are, that we would not notice a multi-pronged, concerted strategy?

Congress: Can you tell with a 9% approval rating, what we feel about the job you are doing? You stink and sucketh.

And we pay taxes for this rape and pillage?

Sierra

Amen Sierra, amen. Seriously, they are contaminating US!!! I've got Celiac disease which is cause by an inability to break down the protein Gluten. Now Gluten in GMO wheat is 5 times stronger a protein bond then what naturally occurs. Wheat was GMOed to have a stronger protein so that the seed would last longer without any consideration as to how this would effect humans. The result now is that one in 4 people are Gluten sensitive and one in 10 has celiacs and most are not diagnosed. This is huge compared to 40 years ago when one in only 30 were gluten sensitive... this is literally KILLING people.
From the Heart,
Wormhole

[13th Warrior]

Congress: Can you tell with a 9% approval rating, what we feel about the job you are doing? You stink and sucketh.

Indeed; Communism now more popular than Congress.

[Calz]

I feel sometimes like I throw cold water on so many threads . . . . . but while this sounds like a great occurrence and perhaps on the road to a victory it will go absolutely nowhere.

I could bring up many reasons but I’ll state only one here:

MONEY

Realistically how much money will these 270,000 farmers come up with?? It will be literally a drop in the bucket compared to the billions that back Monsanto.

My one dream for 2012 would be that we stop fighting the good fight within the parameters and rules that “they” have defined.

Be a rebel
Think outside the box
Be proactive and vigilant
Be sneaky
Be smart
Be patient
Unify and unite


Perhaps not ... if a solo farmer can win then perhaps times they are a changin???


Wow. Perhaps change really is "afoot"??? There were a number of threads about Monsanto lawsuits but I felt this appropriate enough to have it's own thread as not a whole lot of people would have ever guessed it possible.

War is not over ... but take a moment to appreciate a battle won.

(note - many embedded links in the text. Go to site if you wish to use the supplemental information provided)


______________________


OLzELDt3d2I


By Dr. Mercola

Monsanto has long been trying to establish control over the seeds of the plants that produce food for the world.

They have already patented a number of genetically altered food crops, which can only be grown with proper license, and the seeds for which must be purchased anew each year.

But genetically engineered crops cannot be contained.

And rather than being found guilty of contaminating farmers' property, Monsanto has successfully sued hundreds of farmers for patent infringement.

Many farmers have subsequently, quite literally, lost their farms.

Percy Schmeiser of Saskatchewan, Canada, was also a victim of Monsanto's vile ways.

Schmeiser worked on farming and developing his own seeds for 50 years, and when his fields were contaminated, Monsanto threatened him, intimidated him, and tried to take his land away.

But Schmeiser refused to give in, and eventually beat them in court.

David versus Goliath

Percy's story is a classic case of David versus Goliath, and his victory is no doubt momentous.

It all began in 1998, at which time Schmeiser had grown canola on his farm for 40 years. Like any other traditional farmer, he used his own seeds, saved from the previous harvest. But, like hundreds of other North American farmers, Schmeiser ended up being sued by Monsanto for 'patent infringement.'

More than 320 hectares were found to be contaminated with Roundup Ready canola—the biotech giant's patented canola, genetically engineered to tolerate otherwise lethal doses of glyphosate. The company sought damages totaling $400,000.

Most farmers end up settling, but Schmeiser was angry enough to fight back. In a 1999 interview, Schmeiser stated:

"I never put those plants on my land. The question is, where do Monsanto's rights end and mine begin?"

The case eventually went before the Federal Court of Canada. Schmeiser in turn accused Monsanto of:

* Libel, by publicly accusing him of committing illegal acts

* Trespassing

* Improperly obtaining samples of his seed from a local seed plant

* Callous disregard for the environment by introducing genetically modified crops without proper controls and containment

* Contamination of his crops with unwanted GM plants

After 10 Years, Monsanto Agrees to Pay for Cleanup

After a decade-long battle, Schmeiser won when, in March 2008, Monsanto settled out of court, agreeing to pay for all cleanup costs. The agreement also specified that Schmeiser would not be under gag-order, and that Monsanto can be sued for recontamination.

This was a much-needed win not just for Schmeiser, but for farmers everywhere. It set the precedence that farmers may be entitled to reimbursement when their fields are contaminated with unwanted GM crops (as indeed they should!). On Schmeiser's website, www.percyschmeiser.com, he states:

"If I would go to St. Louis and contaminate their plots--destroy what they have worked on for 40 years--I think I would be put in jail and the key thrown away."

However, that's not to say that farmers have nothing to fear anymore… The Federal Court of Canada did uphold the validity of Monsanto's patent, dismissing Schmeiser's challenge to the patent based on the fact that Monsanto cannot control its spread. Worse yet, while the judge agreed that a farmer can generally claim ownership of crops growing in his fields when they're inadvertently carried there by pollen or wind, this does not hold true when it comes to patented, genetically modified seed. Schmeiser was deeply upset about this particular part of the ruling, as the implications are huge.

Still, in this case, while Monsanto's patent was still deemed valid and enforceable, Schmeiser was not forced to pay for the 'privilege' of having his fields contaminated…

This landmark case is now featured in the documentary film "David versus Monsanto." (See the trailer above.)

The Riceland Foods Lawsuit—Another Successful Strike-Back against GM Contamination

More recently, Riceland Foods, the largest rice cooperative in the U.S. won its lawsuit against the Bayer Corporation after its natural long-grain rice was contaminated with Bayer's unapproved genetically engineered rice. It was just one of about 3,000 similar lawsuits filed against Bayer in recent years. In April of last year, Bayer CropScience was also ordered to pay a dozen Arkansas farmers nearly $50 million "for allowing a genetically altered strain of rice to escape into the commercial market, damaging rice prices in 2006," a Bloomberg Law article reported.

As a result of the contamination with Bayer's unapproved experimental GM rice, countries within the European Union refused to purchase U.S. long grain rice, and American rice farmers and cooperatives lost $389 million in projected sales, not to mention the clean-up costs.

The jury determined that Bayer caused "tremendous harm to Riceland and the entire industry," awarding Riceland $11.8 million in compensatory damages and $125 million in punitive damages.

In this case, the genetically engineered rice, known as LibertyLink, was never actually approved for commercial planting. It's an experimental crop, meant to be sown for research purposes only. However, it's a perfect example of just how impossible it is to contain genetically engineered crops once they're in the ground.

Biotech corporations have tried to convince everyone that their genetically altered crops pose no danger to the environment and other nearby crops, and that the issue of contamination is an insignificant one. Clearly, the reality is very different from what they've projected. There's simply NO way to avoid contamination! Genetically modified (GM) seed crops can, and most certainly do, spread beyond their designated fields.

GM Contamination Spreading Like Uncontained Wildfire

Contamination can occur in a number of different ways. Pollen drift from field to field via insects and wind is just the beginning.

In August of last year, the Food Freedom blog reported that the Irish government discovered they'd accidentally planted banned GM maize, originating from Monsanto. In this case, the contamination originated from the seed supplier, Pioneer Hi-Bred Northern Europe, a subsidiary of DuPont. Random tests by the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (DAFF), discovered that three out of 1,000 plants were contaminated by Monsanto's illegal GM maize, NK603. The crop was subsequently destroyed to protect organic farms in the area.

But the full extent of the contamination is uncertain, as it was only discovered through random testing. The seed had already been verified as "GM-free" by Pioneer Hi-Bred itself.

Other recent cases of widespread contamination include:

2010: Monsanto's GM corn was discovered across 3,000 hectares (7,400 acres) in seven German states. Since Germany doesn't allow GM corn to be planted, the farmers had to destroy their crops. These farmers had to "eat" their losses, as the seed companies refused to accept liability for the contamination.
2007: Pollen drift from GM maize (MON810) fields were found to have contaminated hundreds of conventional and organic farmers in Spain, the only country in the EU that allows GM maize to be cultivated.
In the latter case, a 2009 Greenpeace report documents the profound socioeconomic and human impacts the contamination has had. Part of the summary reads:

"The farmers' stories tell of an alarming reduction in the amount of organic maize being grown and the direct negative impacts that genetically modified organisms have on the population. These organic producers have voluntarily opted out of the conventional or GM farming model, many out of dedication to the principles of sustainability.

Now, they face contamination from neighboring GM crops, even when they take measures to try to avoid cross pollination of the plants. For an organic farmer, genetic contamination is an unmitigated disaster. This report tells the stories of real people who have experienced losses not of their own making. Adding insult to injury, they often have to pay for testing or other protection measures themselves.

… There are no safeguards for MON 810 cultivation, and co-existence of GM and non-modified crops is impossible." [Emphasis mine.]

That's the reality of the situation, and this is precisely why we must fight against the approval of each and every new genetically engineered crop. They simply cannot be contained. And the same will be true for other genetically engineered foods, such as salmon. All genetically engineered foods absolutely WILL contaminate their conventional and organic counterparts, and destroy diversity.

This is also what makes the recent approval of GM alfalfa in the U.S. so incredibly dangerous. The release of GM alfalfa quite literally threatens the entire organic industry, including organic meat, as alfalfa is the fourth most grown crop in the US, and is used to produce forage seed and hay to feed cows and other livestock.

Protecting Our Food Supply is Everyone's Business!

It's quite clear that genetically engineered foods threaten not only biodiversity and the environment, it can also pose potentially serious threats to animal and human health when consumed. Unfortunately, the revolving door between the biotech industry and the agencies in charge of industry legislation makes it very difficult to stop the ongoing madness.

That does not mean it's impossible, however. But it does require your active participation.

First and foremost, avoid buying GM foods! Since the industry has successfully squelched every attempt at getting genetically engineered foods labeled, avoiding them requires you to be an educated consumer.

Print out the Non-GMO Shopping Guide and refer to it often. It can help you identify and avoid foods with GMOs. You can also download the free iPhone application that is available in the iTunes store. You can find it by searching for ShopNoGMO in the applications.

Better yet, always buy USDA 100% Organic products when possible as these do not permit GM ingredients, or buy whole fresh produce and meat from local farmers. The majority of the GMO's you're exposed to are via processed foods, so by cooking from scratch with whole foods, you can be sure you're not inadvertently consuming something laced with GM ingredients.

When you do purchase processed food, avoid products containing anything related to corn or soy that are not 100 percent organic, as any foods containing these two non-organic ingredients are virtually guaranteed to contain genetically engineered ingredients.

For ongoing updates, follow our Non-GMO’s page on Facebook.
We CAN shift the balance by simply voting with our pocketbooks. Europe successfully did this over a decade ago, without any government assistance, and Americans can drive GMO's out of our food supply as well, but it requires educating the public about what GM foods are.

lu2qKI2Ju9s


Important Action Item: Support California's Ballot Initiative to Label GMO's!

In 2007, then-Presidential candidate Obama promised to "immediately" require GM labeling if elected. So far, nothing of the sort has transpired.

zqaaB6NE1TI

Fortunately, 24 U.S. states have (as part of their state governance) something called the Initiative Process, where residents can bring to ballot any law they want enacted, as long as it has sufficient support. California has been busy organizing just such a ballot initiative to get mandatory labeling for genetically engineered foods sold in their state. The proposed law will be on the ballot for 2012.

Michigan and Washington are also starting similar campaigns.

Since California is the 8th largest economy in the world, a win for the California Initiative would be a huge step forward, and would affect ingredients and labeling nation-wide. Last month, a coalition of consumer, public health and environmental organizations, food companies, and individuals submitted the California Right to Know Genetically Engineered Food Act to the State Attorney General. Now, they need 800,000 signatures to get the Act on next year’s ballot.

I urge you to get involved and help in any way you can.

If you live in California, volunteer to gather petition signatures. If you live outside of California, please donate to help support this Initiative and spread the word to everyone you know in California. Be assured that what happens in California will affect the remainder of the U.S. states, so please support this important state initiative, even if you do not live there!


http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2011/12/25/percy-schmeiser-farmer-who-beat-monsanto.aspx?e_cid=20111225_SNL_Art_1

[Kristin]

"Perhaps not ... if a solo farmer can win then perhaps times they are a changin???" - Calz

I'm in agreement with you here, though I do not trust that Obama can promise anything, LOL. However, that does mean that they are aware that we are here. We need to look at the power we have left and start to exercise it. Our voices combined are powerful. Time to be heard.

From the Heart,
Wormhole

[Calz]

"Perhaps not ... if a solo farmer can win then perhaps times they are a changin???" - Calz

I'm in agreement with you here, though I do not trust that Obama can promise anything, LOL. However, that does mean that they are aware that we are here. We need to look at the power we have left and start to exercise it. Our voices combined are powerful. Time to be heard.

From the Heart,
Wormhole

Did *any* of the Obama campaign "promises" come to pass???

Why oh why do we even bother listen to these psychopaths tell us what they will do ... total BS but yet look at all the people still falling for it.

[Carmody]

I feel sometimes like I throw cold water on so many threads . . . . . but while this sounds like a great occurrence and perhaps on the road to a victory it will go absolutely nowhere.

I could bring up many reasons but I’ll state only one here:

MONEY

Realistically how much money will these 270,000 farmers come up with?? It will be literally a drop in the bucket compared to the billions that back Monsanto.

My one dream for 2012 would be that we stop fighting the good fight within the parameters and rules that “they” have defined.

Be a rebel
Think outside the box
Be proactive and vigilant
Be sneaky
Be smart
Be patient
Unify and unite

the job is to find out WHO exactly is presiding over the case. Who the judge 'belongs to'. Then illustrate those connections before the case's deliberations take place. Keep the judge honest. difficult to do in these days, true, but it needs be done. Monsanto is not beyond nefarious behavior, in any given direction. they have shown the have no moral or ethical compass.

this means that anything you think of that seems too dirty or rotten or too expensive, well...they WILL try it and they WILL use those doorways and avenues.

Makes sure everyone finds and knows about those doorways, methods... and techniques.

If they have to spend a few hundred million $$ getting this done, or 'removing' key issues/people....THEY WILL.

watch for it. expect it. 100% so.

[Sierra]

Amen Sierra, amen. Seriously, they are contaminating US!!! I've got Celiac disease which is cause by an inability to break down the protein Gluten. Now Gluten in GMO wheat is 5 times stronger a protein bond then what naturally occurs. Wheat was GMOed to have a stronger protein so that the seed would last longer without any consideration as to how this would effect humans. The result now is that one in 4 people are Gluten sensitive and one in 10 has celiacs and most are not diagnosed. This is huge compared to 40 years ago when one in only 30 were gluten sensitive... this is literally KILLING people.
From the Heart,
Wormhole

I had no idea Wormhole, I am so sorry to hear this. That is an unbelievable increase (oh could that be the source for the unbelievable increase in Autism as well?).

How are you dealing with the Celiac disease?

Sierra

[Sierra]

Most farmers end up settling, but Schmeiser was angry enough to fight back. In a 1999 interview, Schmeiser stated:
"I never put those plants on my land. The question is, where do Monsanto's rights end and mine begin?"
The case eventually went before the Federal Court of Canada. Schmeiser in turn accused Monsanto of:

* Libel, by publicly accusing him of committing illegal acts

* Trespassing

* Improperly obtaining samples of his seed from a local seed plant

* Callous disregard for the environment by introducing genetically modified crops without proper controls and containment

* Contamination of his crops with unwanted GM plants

After 10 Years, Monsanto Agrees to Pay for Cleanup

After a decade-long battle, Schmeiser won when, in March 2008, Monsanto settled out of court, agreeing to pay for all cleanup costs. The agreement also specified that Schmeiser would not be under gag-order, and that Monsanto can be sued for recontamination.


Thank you for the good news Calz. And I thank the universe for that stubborn son of bitch Schmeiser.

Kudos to Schmeiser. :)

[Kristin]

Amen Sierra, amen. Seriously, they are contaminating US!!! I've got Celiac disease which is cause by an inability to break down the protein Gluten. Now Gluten in GMO wheat is 5 times stronger a protein bond then what naturally occurs. Wheat was GMOed to have a stronger protein so that the seed would last longer without any consideration as to how this would effect humans. The result now is that one in 4 people are Gluten sensitive and one in 10 has celiacs and most are not diagnosed. This is huge compared to 40 years ago when one in only 30 were gluten sensitive... this is literally KILLING people.
From the Heart,
Wormhole

I had no idea Wormhole, I am so sorry to hear this. That is an unbelievable increase (oh could that be the source for the unbelievable increase in Autism as well?).

How are you dealing with the Celiac disease?

Sierra

Well one day at a time. I'm in and out of the hospital a lot, but my guts are healing... slowly. It will take me about a year to really get back on my feet again. Gluten is in everything from soy sauce to beer and most everything in between. I've just managed by changing my diet and working with a nutritionist to keep my vitamin levels up. I almost died six months ago. No one could figure out why I was starving to death and eating like a horse. The GMO foods destroyed my intestinal tract and nearly did me in. This is happening to a lot of people but the medical industry is making money treating the symptoms rather then the cause. Same story as a lot of things. I got lucky and figured most of it out on my own, which saved my life. Thank God/dess I have a sense of humour! It's a healthy life, so I really can't complain and in many ways I'm grateful.

Plus I have more time while I heal to hang out here on Avalon again and bug all of you fine folks! LOL!

From the Heart,
Wormhole

PS. Yes there are studies showing that this is linked to Autism, Insomnia, Diabetes, ADHD, Arthritis, Cancer, Gallbladder, Infertility, Thyroid, Liver Disease, IBS and much more. This is seriously an issue for everyone to consider.

[Kristin]

Here's an update:
On January 31, family farmers will take part in the first phase of a court case filed to protect farmers from genetic trespass by Monsanto’s GMO seed, which contaminates organic and non-GMO farmer’s crops and opens them up to abusive lawsuits. In the past two decades, Monsanto’s seed monopoly has grown so powerful that they control the genetics of nearly 90% of five major commodity crops including corn, soybeans, cotton, canola and sugar beets.

In many cases farmers are forced to stop growing certain crops to avoid genetic contamination and potential lawsuits. Between 1997 and 2010, Monsanto admits to filing 144 lawsuits against America’s family farmers, while settling another 700 out of court for undisclosed amounts. Due to these aggressive lawsuits, Monsanto has created an atmosphere of fear in rural America and driven dozens of farmers into bankruptcy. Please join us in standing up for family farmers everywhere against Monsanto's abusive seed monopoly.
From the Heart,
Wormhole

[ceetee9]

Around 300,000 organic farmers think that Monsanto, the biotech giant known for genetically modifying Mother Nature’s handwork for profit and pushing over the little guys all the while, is pretty seedy.

Now a judge in New York is debating if Monsanto’s questionable methods will go before a jury.

Judge Naomi Buchwald of the Southern District Court of New York says she will have a decision on March 31 in regards to whether a lawsuit waged against the mega-corporation Monsanto should make it to trial.

Last year, 270,000 organic farmers from around 60 family farms tried to take Monsanto to court over issues pertaining to a genetically-modified seed masterminded by the corporation. Not only were the smaller farms concerned over how the manufactured seeds had been carried by wind and creature alike onto their own plantations, but the biggest problem perhaps was that Monsanto was filing lawsuits themselves against farmers. Monsanto went after hundreds of farmers for infringing on their patented seed after audits revealed that their farms had contained their product — as a result of routine pollination by animals and acts of nature. Unable to afford a proper defense, competing small farms have been bought out by the company in droves. As a result, Monsanto saw their profits increase by the hundreds of millions over the last few years as a result. Between 1997 and 2010, Monsanto tackled 144 organic farms with lawsuits and investigated roughly 500 plantations annually during that span with a so-called “seed police.”

Farmers have been concerned that unless Monsanto is stopped, their reign over the world’s agriculture will surpass anything imaginable. They are seeking pre-emptive protection from those questionable lawsuits and next month Judge Buchwald will weigh in on if the matter should go to trial. Her honor recently listened to oral arguments on Monsanto’s Motion to Dismiss, which the corporation hopes to win to cease the charges being brought by a total of 83 plaintiffs representing now over 300,000 organic farm-affiliated businesses. The legal team for the small-time farmers also offered their arguments.

“Monsanto's threats and abuse of family farmers stops here,” says Jim Gerritsen, president of the Organic Seed Growers and Trade Association. “Monsanto's genetic contamination of organic seed and organic crops ends now. Americans have the right to choice in the marketplace — to decide what kind of food they will feed their families — and we are taking this action on their behalf to protect that right to choose.”

Elizabeth Archerd, the director of a Minneapolis food co-op, adds in support of the farmers to the New York Times, “Pollen and DNA do not play by the USDA’s rules.” Although hundreds of thousands of farmers feel the same way, it’ll take a judge to decide the next step in the case. From there though, things could get dirty. Michael Taylor, a former attorney for the US Department of Agriculture and lobbyist for Monsanto was recently appointed to a federal role as the deputy commissioner for foods at the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Since then, the FDA has refused requests to label genetically modified products as such despite demands from consumer protection groups.

Link to above RT.com article:
http://rt.com/usa/news/farmers-monsanto-organic-farms-323/
It should be very interesting to see if the NY judge in this case “lets” the plaintiff’s case go to trial. Monsanto has been on a crusade to snuff out the small organic farmers in this country since at least 1997 and they have literally destroyed hundreds of these farmers who could not defend themselves against the multi-billion dollar corporation. The FDA (Food and Drug Administration) has refused requests to label genetically modified products despite demands from consumer protection groups and now, Michael Taylor, a former attorney for the US Department of Agriculture and LOBBYIST for Monsanto, has been appointed deputy commissioner for foods at the FDA. Gee, what do you think the odds are the judge will “let” this case go to jury trial? Judge Naomi Buchwald says she will have a ruling in this case on March 31st, 2012. Pay attention to this case.

With the steady pace at which Monsanto is gaining control over the world’s food supply, our “leaders” are destroying the Constitution and taking away our rights and freedoms, and the US government is continually itching to start yet another conflict in the middle east—one that could very well lead to WWIII if we go to war with Iran, one might begin to think that all those “crazies” who’ve been saying the powers-that-be are hell bent on reducing the world population to 500,000,000 (~7% of our current population) just might be onto something.

Check out the Georgia Guidestones (American Stonehenge) for some more clues--particularly guideline #1.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Georgia_Guidestones

[Cartomancer]

I can't wait to see the outcome of this. This is very exciting. Ixnay otay Onsantomay.

[ThePythonicCow]

Around 300,000 organic farmers think that Monsanto, the biotech giant known for genetically modifying Mother Nature’s handwork for profit and pushing over the little guys all the while, is pretty seedy.
I merged this new "300,000 Farmers Hope for Lawsuit Against Monsanto" thread in with the existing 270,000 Organic Farmers file suit against MONSANTO!!! (http://projectavalon.net/forum4/showthread.php?37780-270-000-Organic-Farmers-file-suit-against-MONSANTO---&highlight=monsanto) thread.

[ceetee9]

Around 300,000 organic farmers think that Monsanto, the biotech giant known for genetically modifying Mother Nature’s handwork for profit and pushing over the little guys all the while, is pretty seedy.
I merged this new "300,000 Farmers Hope for Lawsuit Against Monsanto" thread in with the existing 270,000 Organic Farmers file suit against MONSANTO!!! (http://projectavalon.net/forum4/showthread.php?37780-270-000-Organic-Farmers-file-suit-against-MONSANTO---&highlight=monsanto) thread.No problem. However, I did a search before posting this Feb. 15th, 2012 article to see if this had been covered before using keywords "300,000, farmers, lawsuit, and Monsanto" and the search produced nothing. Is there a problem with your search engine?

[ThePythonicCow]

However, I did a search before posting this Feb. 15th, 2012 article to see if this had been covered before using keywords "300,000, farmers, lawsuit, and Monsanto" and the search produced nothing. Is there a problem with your search engine?

Yeah - you might say there's a problem - the search engine is not easy to figure just how to phrase the search to find what you're looking for. It's "non-intuitive" :).

Not much we can do about it ... I expect to do thread merges fairly often in cases just such as yours. The poster made an honest effort to look, found nothing, and posted. But then someone (usually a long time, active member or one of the mods) will recall seeing something like it, figure out how to find it, and propose a merge (which may or may not end up happening, depending on various factors.)

Just the way it is ...

[ozarkflyfisherman]

Monsanto's headquarters are 2 minutes from my office. Living here in the Midwest, you see their product in every field as I drive through farm country. Makes me sick to think of what they are doing.

[Cjay]

This article includes video: http://www.ecocentricblog.org/2012/02/15/organic-farmers-sue-monsanto-hundreds-converge-in-support/

[Kristin]

Update on US policy and Monsanto...
From the Heart,
Wormhole

Leaked Cable: US to Start ‘Trade Wars’ with Nations Opposed to Monsanto, GMO Crops

10th January 2012

By Anthony Gucciardi

Contributing Writer for Wake Up World

The United States is threatening nations who oppose Monsanto’s genetically modified (GM) crops withmilitary-style trade wars, according to information obtained and released by the organization WikiLeaks. Nations like France, which have moved to ban one of Monsanto’s GM corn varieties, were requested to be ‘penalized’ by the United States for opposing Monsanto and genetically modified foods. The information reveals just how deep Monsanto’s roots have penetrated key positions within the United States government, with the cables reporting that many U.S. diplomats work directly for Monsanto.



The WikiLeaks cable reveals that in late 2007, the United States ambassador to France and business partner to George W. Bush, Craig Stapleton, requested that the European Union along with particular nations that did not support GMO crops be penalized. Stapleton, who co-owned the Dallas/Fort Worth-based Texas Rangers baseball team with Bush in the 1990s, stated:

“Country team Paris recommends that we calibrate a target retaliation list that causes some pain across the EU since this is a collective responsibility, but that also focuses in part on the worst culprits. The list should be measured rather than vicious and must be sustainable over the long term, since we should not expect an early victory. Moving to retaliation will make clear that the current path has real costs to EU interests and could help strengthen European pro-biotech voices.”

The Leaked Political Agenda Behind Monsanto’s GMO Crops

The ambassador plainly calls for ‘target retaliation’ against nations who are against using Monsanto’s genetically modified corn, admittedly linked to organ damage and environmental devastation. Amazingly, this is not an isolated case. In similar newly released cables, United States diplomats are found to have pushed GMO crops as a strategic government and commercial imperative. Furthermore, the U.S. specifically targeted advisers to the pope, due to the fact that many Catholic bishops and figureheads have openly denounced GMO crops. In fact, the Vatican has openly declared Monsanto’s GMO crops as a ‘new form of slavery’.

“A Martino deputy told us recently that the cardinal had co-operated with embassy Vatican on biotech over the past two years in part to compensate for his vocal disapproval of the Iraq war and its aftermath – to keep relations with the USG [US government] smooth. According to our source, Martino no longer feels the need to take this approach,” says the cable.

Perhaps the most shocking piece of information exposed by the cables is the fact that these U.S. diplomats are actually working directly for biotech corporations like Monsanto. The cables also highlight the relationship between the U.S. and Spain in their conquest to persuade other nations to allow for the expansion of GMO crops. Not only did the Spanish government secretly correspond with the U.S. government on the subject, but the U.S. government actually knew beforehand how Spain would vote before the Spanish biotech commission reported their decision regarding GMO crops. The cable states:


“In response to recent urgent requests by [Spanish rural affairs ministry] state secretary Josep Puxeu and Monsanto, post requests renewed US government support of Spain’s science-based agricultural biotechnology position through high-level US government intervention.”

Monsanto has undoubtedly infiltrated the United States government in order to push their health-endangering agenda, and this has been known long before the release of these WikiLeaks cables. The U.S. is the only place where Monsanto’s synthetic hormone Posilac is still used in roughly 1/3 of all cows, with 27 nations banning the substance over legitimate health concerns. Despite Monsanto’s best attempts at incognito political corruption, nothing can stop the grassroots anti-Monsanto movement that is taking over cities and nations alike.