Scoop has an Ethical Paywall
Notice of hearing on fungi to protect cereal crops
Notice of hearing on fungi to protect cereal crops
The
Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) is holding a
hearing to decide on an application to release non-toxic
Epichloe fungi. Epichloe endophytes could improve the
resistance of cereal plants to insect pests, fungal diseases
and drought.
The EPA has previously approved the import and release of 45 strains of asexual Epichloe fungi. The applicant Grasslanz Technology Ltd is seeking to add a further 18 strains to the approved list of endophytes.
The hearing will be held on Monday, 23 March in the Lambton Room 1, at the Terrace Conference Centre, St John’s House, 114 The Terrace, Wellington. It will commence at 10am and is expected to adjourn at approximately 2pm.
The hearing will focus on the benefits, risks and costs of the Epichloe fungi in new cereal-endophyte associations for applications in agricultural systems.
The EPA’s role is to oversee applications for new organisms under the Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act. We assess the benefits, risks and costs of releasing new organisms to safeguard people and the environment.
You can read more about this application and the hearing process on the EPA website http://www.epa.govt.nz/search-databases/Pages/applications-details.aspx?appID=APP202236
ENDS
Business Canterbury: Urges Council To Cut Costs, Not Ambition For City
Wellington Airport: On Track For Net Zero Emissions By 2028
Landcare Research: ANZAC Gall Fly Release Promises Natural Solution To Weed Threat
NZ Anti-Vivisection Society: Auckland Rat Lovers Unite!
University of Canterbury: $1.35 Million Grant To Study Lion-like Jumping Spiders
Federated Farmers: Government Ends War On Farming
