A Panel Discussion Open to the Public

January 30, 2009 - On February 5, 2009 four experts in the field of genetic engineering will take part in a panel discussion on the benefits and hazards of the application of this technology in agriculture. The panel is set up to present multiple perspectives on the issue and will be moderated by an official from the Oregon Department of Agriculture. Following the panel there will be time for questions from the audience to each of the panel participants.

The panel will feature Oregon Physicians for Social Responsibility’s Campaign for Safe Foods Program Director, Rick North, Oregon State University's Associate Director of Outreach in Biotechnology Dr. David Harry, Portland State University's Dr. Lisa Weasel and Oregonians for Food and Shelter's Terry Witt. The panel will be moderated by Dan Hilburn of the Oregon Department of Agriculture. Each panelist brings a unique perspective on the pros and cons of genetic engineering. Lori Beamer, of LifeSource Natural Foods and coordinator of rBGH-Free Salem, is promoting the event in the community as interesting and informative, “The event is intended to increase understanding of genetic engineering in a stimulating format that will assist consumers in making informed decisions about the foods they choose to eat.”

The presentation is a collaborative effort between Friends of the Straub Environmental Learning Center, Oregon Physicians for Social Responsibility, and rBGH-Free Salem, a local volunteer group working to raise awareness about genetic engineering.

The presentation will be held at the Salem Public Library at 585 Liberty St. SE from 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. on February 5, 2009. Admission is free and open to the public.

For more information contact: Rick North – hrnorth@hevanet.com; 503-968-1520.

Oregon PSR is a Portland based non-profit dedicated to raising awareness about environmental health and justice issues. The organization is devised of four programs including: Peace and Security, Environmental Health, Global Warming, and the Campaign for Safe Food (www.oregonpsr.org).

The Friends of the Straub Environmental Learning Center, a non-profit organization, was established in 2004 and is dedicated to environmental education. The Friends seeks to promote foster public awareness of the beauty and cultural history of the Willamette Valley. Throughout the year, the Straub Center offers a stream of programs for students and adults alike, all designed to heighten concern and respect for Oregon’s environment (http://www.fselc.org).