TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Internationally recognized plant scientist Don Huber, Ph.D., professor emeritus at Purdue University, will be the featured speaker at a series of educational awareness sessions scheduled November 11-12 at Florida A&M University (FAMU). Huber will discuss “The Impact of Glyphosate and GMOs on the Food Supply and Human Health: Best Management Practices,” a topic of high significance to farmers, consumers, agribusiness and the food industry. The FAMU Statewide Small Farm Program, FAMU Center for Biological Control, Ekanlaunee Seed Exchange, Florida Certified Organic Growers and Consumers (FOG), along with local small farmers and urban growers are excited to work in collaboration to present Dr. Huber to share his knowledge with students, faculty, researchers, local farmers and growers and the general public. The sessions are scheduled during the following dates and times:
Monday, November 11, 2013
Noon - 5 p.m.
Venue: FAMU Center for Viticulture and
Small Fruit Research
6505 E. Mahan Drive
Tallahassee, FL 32317
Tuesday, November 12, 2013
10 a.m. – Noon
Venue: Auditorium, Perry-Paige Bldg.
Campus of Florida A&M University
1740 Martin Luther King Boulevard
Tallahassee, FL 32307
Huber will share insights on mineral nutrition of plants, mineral nutrition for disease control, glyphosate and GMO crops, and the impact of glyphosate and GMOs on soil, seed, crop, animal and human health with respect to best management practices.
During the sessions, the Florida Representative Michelle Rehwinkle Vasilinda will also discuss the statewide issue of GMO labeling. Representative Vasilinda filed bill number HB1/Genetically Engineered Foods that would require the labeling of all foods containing GMOs (GE products). Local organic farmer Herman Holley from Turkey Hill Farm will be on-hand to discuss the importance of community awareness. The presentation will be followed by audience Q&A.
Huber will also speak in Gainesville, Fla. on Tuesday, November 12 at 6:30 p.m. at the Civic Media Center. During this session, Marty Mesh, executive director of Florida Organic Growers (FOG) will also discuss policy and regulatory ramifications including GMO labeling initiatives, provide an update on non-GMO agricultural issues, and current farmer lawsuit against Monsanto. The session will be followed by Q&A. Registration is $5.00/person.
Students, faculty, farmers, and general public are encouraged to participate and learn more about these important issues. Contact Jennifer Taylor, Ph.D., coordinator, FAMU Statewide Small Farm Programs, for more information at famu.register@gmail.com.
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