Preserving the Environment

Agriculture:
Environmental Warnings

StarLink

Aventis CropScience, maker of StarLink genetically modified corn that had entered the grain and food chains, has signed a binding agreement with the Attorney General that will provide financial relief for Illinois farmers and grain elevators.

In the agreement, Aventis affirmed assurances and claim procedures it has posted for growers and elevators at the company Web site-- www.StarLinkCorn.com --and "assured the states that it has access to assets necessary to satisfy its obligations" under the agreement. Growers may also call StarLink Logistics at toll free (866/785-8665).

Illinois joined 16 other states in signing the agreement with Aventis. The states did not release any potential claims or causes of action as a result of the agreement, in case other issues arise that are not covered by the agreement. The agreement also does not affect any claims that have been made, or could be made by growers or elevators.

Aventis also agreed to continue negotiating with the state regarding details of implementing the agreement, and discussion will continue as other StarLink corn issues arise, the Attorney General explained.

The agreement will be in force for four years. The agreement was signed on January 22, 2001 by the states and Aventis CropScience USA LP, based in Research Triangle Park, NC. The states encompass over 90 percent of the acreage planted to StarLink corn last year.

The detailed documents attached to the agreement include terms and claim procedures for StarLink growers and buffer growers, for growers with losses related to non-StarLink corn containing Cry9C protein or DNA, and elevators with losses related to StarLink corn.

The "Cry9C Growers" are those whose corn tests positive for Cry9C protein or DNA but who did not grow corn from StarLink hybrids and did not grow corn within 660 feet of corn grown from StarLink hybrids. On Jan. 12 Aventis posted terms and claim procedures for Cry9C Growers at its web site.

Aventis has said the goal of its "StarLink Enhanced Stewardship" and StarLink Logistics plans is to completely segregate StarLink corn from other grain and to move StarLink corn and commingled corn to approved sites and approved uses such as animal feed and certain industrial uses.

Growers and elevators can be eligible for Aventis payments for documented StarLink costs or losses such as transportation, storage, testing and demurrage (extra costs resulting from handling StarLink.)

The Office of the Attorney General commended the Illinois Department of Agriculture , the Farm Bureau and the Illinois Corn Growers Association for working with farm staff on the project. The Office of the Attorney General will continue to monitor the situation and will keep working with other attorneys general to address additional issues that may arise.

http://www.agr.state.il.us/news/Special/starlink.htm

HARVEST ALERT TO FARMERS

Harvest season is upon us and unattended nurse tanks are rich targets for thieves. Anhydrous ammonia is a key ingredient in the production of methamphetamine which is a central nervous system stimulant not unlike cocaine or even caffeine.

Because this chemical is commonly used for agricultural purposes, theft of nurse tanks is even greater. As you work your fields during this harvest season, please keep the following theft prevention tips in mind:

• Have tanks delivered as close to the time of application as possible.
• Position tanks in open areas where they can be seen from the roadway. Avoid placing tanks in remote areas.
• Inspect the condition of each tank upon delivery and return.
• Check tanks frequently for tampering. Tanks which appear to be unattended are often targeted for thefts.
• Return tanks immediately after use.
• Most important, remember that the proper storage of anhydrous ammonia is important for the safety of you and your family and can help prevent the manufacture of methamphetamine and environmental risk to our society.

Illinois lawmakers have taken steps in response to anhydrous ammonia thefts.

• Tampering with anhydrous ammonia equipment, containers or storage facilities is, at minimum, a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to 364 days in jail.
• Legal owners of anhydrous ammonia equipment, containers or storage facilities are not subject to civil liability for any injury sustained by any person who unlawfully tampers with such equipment, containers or storage facilities.
• Transfer of anhydrous ammonia in a portable container not authorized by the Hazardous Materials Act is a Class IV felony.

You should never confront someone attempting to steal anhydrous ammonia. Immediately report any thefts or signs of tampering to your local law enforcement agency.

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