The USDA has approved the first open-air trial of a genetically modified non-sterile insect – male diamondback moths that pass along a gene during mating that prevents female offspring from reaching adulthood. The Northeast Organic Farming Association of New York said it “believes in the strongest terms that this action should trigger a full environmental review” by state officials, rather than a rubber-stamp approval.
Cornell University researchers plan to release batches of the GM moths at a research farm in Geneva, NY, to see if they reduce populations of the diamondback moth, a widespread pest of crops such as cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower and kale. USDA estimates the moth costs farmers $4 billion-$5 billion a year worldwide. Its Animal and Plant Health Inspection Agency, which regulates GMO products, issued a permit for the two-year trial at the same time it released an environmental assessment and a “finding of no significant impact” statement.
Before the open-air trial can begin, Cornell needs a permit from the state Department of Environmental Conservation. “Typically, Cornell research permits receive cursory review by the department,” said the organic farming group. “But because this is the first worldwide release of a new insect,” a thorough examination is appropriate. “Without a full environmental review … this experiment must be stopped.”