The U.S. Department of Agriculture turns 150 years old in May, having been created by Congress and President Lincoln in 1862. Leaders of the agricultural community are pointing to biotechnology as a continuation of the scientific approach to agriculture that USDA has promoted from the beginning.

In a recent column, American Farm Bureau Federation President and CEO Bob Stallman outlined the history and continuity of USDA’s mission:

“On May 15, 1862, President Lincoln signed into law a bill establishing a new Department of Agriculture, which was specifically directed to acquire information through ‘practical and scientific experiments’ and to collect and propagate ‘new and valuable seeds and plants’ and distribute these to the nation’s agriculturists,” Stallman wrote.  READ MORE »

 UNESCO approves biotech center in Nigeria to promote food security

According to the Sun News, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) approved the establishment of the  International Biotechnology Centre at the University of Nigeria, the first of its kind in Africa with the goal to “promote food security and tropical disease research and also provide a platform for exchange and collaboration at the national level and within the region and beyond.” Read more.

California Farm Bureau Federation says biotech contributes to American innovation

The California Farm Bureau Federation says biotech is a key part of American innovation and ensures an abundant food supply. John Hart, director of the American Farm Bureau Federation’s news service, calls for the removal of regulatory hurdles to approving biotech crops.

“It is time to invigorate America’s innovative spirit by renewing our commitment to agricultural biotechnology, removing the regulatory hurdles that stand in the way and continuing to make consumers aware that biotech crops are not only safe but desperately needed.” Read more.

Discover Magazine blog calls for science-based policies in support of ag biotech

In a Discover Magazine blog, science author and commentator Chris Mooney discusses misperceptions about the safety of agricultural biotechnology and the importance of science-based regulatory policies.  Read more.