SAFE SEED PLEDGE "Agriculture and seeds provide the basis upon which our lives depend. We must protect this foundation as a safe and genetically stable source for future generations. For the benefit of all farmers, gardeners and consumers who want an alternative,... ...we pledge that we do not knowingly buy or sell genetically engineered seeds or plants. The mechanical transfer of genetic material outside of natural reproductive methods and between genera, families or kindoms, poses great biological risks as well as economic, political, and cultural threats. We feel that genetically engineered varieties have been insufficiently tested prior to public release. More research and testing is necessary to further assess the potential risks of genetically engineered seeds. Further, we wish to support agricultural progress that leads to healthier soils, genetically diverse agricultural ecosystems and ultimately people and communitites." Sincerely, Philip Winteregg General Manager Gourmet Seed International, LLC dba Italian Seed and Tool HC 12 Box 510 Tatum, NM 88267-9700 ph 575-398-6111, fx 575-398-6151 em customerservice@italianseedandtool.com We invite any organizations, governments, businesses and individuals to join us in our support of the Safe Seed Initiative. For more information please contact: The Safe Seed Initiative c/o Council for Responsible Genetics 5 Upland Rd, Suite 3, Cambridge MA 02140 617-868-0870 phone, 617-491-5344 fax crg@gene-watch.org