The 2011 ASHS Annual Conference

Objective(s):
The objectives of this workshop are: (1) to review the risks, benefits and issues that resulted in recent legal cases adjudicating the USDA's evaluation of genetically engineered crops for field testing or deregulation; (2) to learn more about biotechnology regulation and research and testing in Hawaii; and (3) to engage in a round table discussion of divergent points of view.

Genetically engineered plants once promised huge advances for the U.S. horticultural and agronomic industries. However, the biotechnology pipeline has slowed to a trickle. As of 2010, the number of field testing permits and acknowledgments are down 40% compared to the 2002 peak. Furthermore, the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service ("APHIS") only deregulated two agronomic crops for commercial production in 2010 despite over 20 deregulation petitions. Genetically engineered horticultural crops have lagged behind agronomic crops. What factors reduced the application of this technology for horticulture? This workshop will first discuss the scientific, regulatory, and legal issues underlying recent National Environmental Policy Act lawsuits that have had a significant impact on the testing and deregulation of genetically engineered crops across the nation. In the second half, the workshop will focus on the state of biotechnology in Hawaii. What are the scientific issues affecting testing and deregulation of genetically engineered Hawaiian crops? What is the history and future of biotechnology legislation in the State of Hawaii? Are cultural considerations in conflict with genetically engineered crops? Can organic crops coexist with biotechnology in Hawaii? What is the fate of genetically engineered crops?