[CH] Re: Red Savina Inconsistancy
Robert Farr (rbfarr@erols.com)
Fri, 10 Jan 2003 15:25:25 -0500
Hi, Mike. Thanks for the note!
CH'rs - I've copied this to the list as I figure many would like to
weigh in here.
*
Y'know, I'd love more consistency in the GNS products, too - but don't
buy in to hybrids. I run an organic and sustainable farm, and have come
to the conclusion that hybrids are not in the best interest of the
farmer.
First, he can't save his own seed (of course, one can't save Savs or
Franciscas any/way, because of the PVP - which, btw, I was against at
first, but came to realize Frank deserves this protection, because of
his investment in propagating the strain!)).
Second, I view hybridization as the first step of genetic engineering.
Granted, it's much simpler and not as invasive as GE. But it's a
step...
Third, hybrids don't have the resistance to insects, etc. that OP seeds
do. They're the newbies, after all, whereas OP have built up resistance
characteristics over generations.
Fourth, hybrids take the gene pool out of the hands of the public and
put it into private hands.
Fifth, hybrids have helped to eliminate most of our native seed. Did
you know that 95% of the food cultivars that were here when Columbus
came are now gone? They've been bred out of existence by the big seed
companies. If they hadn't done that, imagine the rich seed banks we'd
have here by now!
Any/way, that's my take on it all. GNS, et al could make a more
consistent product by growing the ol' fashioned way. They just need a
better control environment, methinks.
--
Robert Farr
The Chile Man
(540) 668-7160
* A sustainable farm producing hot sauce marinades, salsas, mustards,
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