ST. LOUIS -- Foundation E.A.R.T.H. announced today the launch of the first farmer-based effort dedicated to the public education and advancement of agricultural biotechnology. The Foundation is initiating a dedicated communications program that includes media outreach, participation in agricultural and consumer-oriented events and launching a petition to demonstrate support for biotechnology as an agricultural tool. The announcement marked the beginning of a new partnership at Foundation E.A.R.T.H. President-elect Mark Berg, a South Dakota farmer and former president of the American Soybean Association, will join current president and Illinois farmer, Steve Wentworth to continue the work of the organization.

"Agricultural biotechnology is critical to advancing Foundation E.A.R.T.H's goals of helping the American farmer protect the environment and provide consumers a safe, abundant and affordable food supply," said Wentworth. "While the major commodity organizations support the science of agricultural biotechnology, this is the first concerted effort established to ensure that the growers' voice is heard as part of the dialogue about biotech," said Berg. "Consumers need to hear first-hand from farmers why this technology is so important to production and why we believe so strongly in the benefits for consumers."

"We are starting today with the commitment of more than 50 agricultural leaders from seven states who are willing to speak out about the importance of this technology," said Berg. "We'll be working together to increase understanding about the advantages biotechnology offers today as well as its promise for the future."

As part of the campaign, Foundation E.A.R.T.H. will circulate a "Petition for Technology Choice" to demonstrate to the public and decision-makers that there is broad-based support for biotechnology as an agricultural tool. Berg and Wentworth will be travelling to major agricultural communities over the next several months to rally farmers and educate a broader consumer audience about the benefits of biotechnology as an agricultural tool. Benefits were summarized as follows:

• Environmental Benefits -- Developments in biotechnology can help reduce pesticide use, improve soil erosion control and reduce chemical run-off.

• Consumer Benefits -- Biotechnology produces safe, high quality and abundant crops, helping to keep food prices low. Biotechnology can also enhance the nutritional value of foods like oils and rice as well as preserve freshness and flavor without the use of chemicals.

• Direct Benefits for Farmers -- Increased crop yields and more efficient pest and weed control made possible through biotechnology provide direct cost benefits for farmers. With less tilling necessary, farmers can spend less time in the fields and use less fuel.

Foundation EARTH is a not-for-profit environmental foundation that advocates the responsible use of technology to create an abundant supply of safe and nutritional foods, a healthy environment and prosperous agricultural communities. The central goal of Foundation E.A.R.T.H. is to improve consumer confidence in American agriculture and help foster better understanding about the role of modern farming practices in the stewardship of agricultural lands.

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