Friends,

    Monsanto has applied to the FDA for commercial approval of genetically
engineered wheat.  This would have far-reaching effects on farmers,
consumers, and the environment.  Organic farmers will face genetic
contamination -- industrial pollution with a life of its own.  Conventional
farmers will lose the right to save seed as Monsanto enforces its patents,
and also will lose overseas markets because genetically engineered (GMO)
grains aren't accepted.  Prices will fall, as already has occurred with corn.
 We all lose as the DNA of "the staff of life" is adulterated by hacked,
corporate-controlled genetic code whose chief rationale is to ensure the sale
of more RoundUp.  Both human health and the health of the environment may be
adversely affected, and the right to choice will not exist.  We'll also get
more RoundUp in our diet.
    Wheat -- the amber waves of grain in the song -- are grasses, closely
related to many wild relatives.  Gene splicing will spread from farms into
nature at large rapidly and with unpredictable longer-term results.  For
instance, other genes or alternative metabolic pathways can be affected.
     Whether you agree with what I've written or only part, whether you
believe that we should hold up only a yellow flag or need a red stop sign,
please consider signing our petition.  We're seeking the broadest possible
coalition of those opposed to making our daily bread, a resource developed
since the dawn of agriculture, into Monsanto's -- or anyone's -- cash cow.
    Thanks!  Signatures should be sent to,

        Jim Diamond, M.D.
        (address and sign-on info below letter)

LETTER:

Dear Secretary Veneman:

Genetically engineered (also called GM) wheat raises concerns in many
sectors, both domestically and abroad. Farmers and grain industry
participants are concerned about market loss and risks to the United States'
distinguished reputation for quality wheat varieties. In addition, farmers
are concerned about agronomic impacts. Consumers are concerned about food
safety and regulatory adequacy. Many citizens are concerned about
environmental damage. Organic farmers are concerned about negative effects on
the United States' successful organic sector. Not every organization or
individual that has signed this letter shares every one of these concerns.
However, for one or more of the preceding reasons we, the undersigned, oppose
the introduction of GM wheat into the American food supply and seed supply.

Overwhelming numbers of American farmers and consumers, as well as customers
for American wheat overseas, have said that they do not want GM wheat at this
time. We hope the American government will act democratically, heed the
wishes of its citizens, and act in the best economic interests of farmers.

We represent diverse constituencies and interests, but we are united in
asking that you act to prevent the introduction of genetically engineered
wheat into American food and fields.

Signed:
    Individuals - please send name, city, and State  --
    Groups and organizations -- please send a signed letter or an e-mail
authorizing use of your organization's name -- to --

Jim Diamond, M.D.
Sierra Club Genetic Engineering Committee
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No addresses will be used for fund raising or shared.
Permission is given to print or forward this message to others, but only if
the entire message is copied and attributed to Sierra Club.

S-mail:
Jim Diamond, M.D.
Sierra Club Genetic Engineering Committee
85 Second St.
San Francisco, Ca 94105

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