Amy Thuren for Jackson County Commissioner Position 1 (Lost)

“Carbon sequestration is part of my plan to reduce our greenhouse gas emissions and become energy neutral by 2050.”

That’s just one of the thoughtful answers Amy gave in response to Our Family Farms’ candidate survey. Here are her complete answers:

1. Oregon is renowned for its world-class seed producing climate. How much do you value GE-free agricultural zones in Oregon?

I value GE-free agricultural zones in Oregon very much. We need areas of agriculture where normal selective breeding and hybridization are possible without the danger of contamination events.

2. Do you believe that the companies behind genetically engineered seeds, not the farmers who plant them, should be held accountable for GE contamination events that adversely affect non-GE crops grown nearby?

I believe that the companies behind genetically engineered seeds need to stand by their product. If there is a contamination event, they should be held responsible.

3. Oregon produces a relatively low number of GE crops per area of any state in the U.S., what would you do to ensure that those growing non-GE/GMO will not be impacted by the contamination that thousands of farmers across the U.S. have dealt with in recent years?

Here in Jackson County, we have major agricultural operations, and need to be very careful about where and how we allow GE crops to be grown and used. I would work with the Farm Board and the Economic Development Committee to address this issue at the County level. As of right now, I would be opposed to allowing GE crops to be grown within Jackson County, unless they were grown in a very restricted way.

4. Do you think that local communities should have the right to choose if GE crops are grown in their region?

I think it is essential for local communities to have the right to choose if GE crops are grown in their region. We all have the right of self-determination. When it comes to potential contamination events, and agricultural products we all rely on, it is essential that local communities make their own decisions when it comes to GE crops.

5. Oregon is 4th in the nation with regard to income from organic agricultural products. Do you support the concept of rewarding farmers who practice methods to sequester atmospheric carbon into the soil to help mitigate climate change?

I wholeheartedly support rewarding farmers who practice methods to sequester atmospheric carbon into the soil. Carbon sequestration is part of my plan to reduce our greenhouse gas emissions and become energy neutral by 2050. We all have to do our part and more to combat the effects of climate change, especially given the latest report, released today by the IPCC.

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