Trial sites

Where are they?

You can find out if you have a trial site near you on the test sites pages, by visiting the Friends of the Earth website at http://www.foe.co.uk/camps/foodbio/queries, or alternatively by calling the Department of Environment Transport and the Regions (DETR) biotechnology unit:

 

Where were they?

A large number of trial sites have been decontaminated. Please check with the GEN office for up to the minute information on whether a given trial site has been decontaminated - this could save you a lot of time trying to identify a trial site that no longer exists! Don't forget to tell us if you know of a decontaminated trial site.

 

Previous actions at trial sites (beware - some of the actions outlined below have resulted in arrest)

• Symbolic actions
  These have included surrounding test-sites, marches to fields, and rallies of public concern. Maybe a well known personality who is against genetic engineering could lead a walk to the site and give a talk.
• Citizen's inspection of the site
  This has involved measuring the barrier crop, taking samples to check for cross pollination and putting up biohazard signs. If you are planning a citizen's inspection, get a copy of the regulations for deliberate releases and talk to a scientist.
• Scarecrows, fields taped off as biohazards
• Organic picnic / harvest festivals near the field with speakers, entertainment, safe food.
• Obstructing planting of GM crops
  Banners and direct action. People have even chained themselved onto planting equipment.
• Crop Circles
  For further details, see http://www.head-space.com/circlemakers/. Remember that anything that comes into contact with test-sites or their surroundings is a potential source of contamination.
• Crop destruction
  Crops have been pulled up / destroyed in a variety of different circumstances - small groups, large groups, accountable, and non-accountable.
• Similar non-GM seeds and plants have been sown amongst the crop on site to disrupt trials.
• Crop squat
  GE test sites and potential test-sites have been occupied.

 

Ideas for actions near to trial sites

• Set up a petition
  Set up a petition calling on the farmer and the company not to hold the test as the environmental effects are unknown.
• Local Public meeting
  Invite the farmer,company, campaigners, local radio etc
• Put the field on trial
  Arrange a trial by public jury near to the site. Appoint a judge and people to lead the case for and against gene-foods. Invite comment and opinions from audience.

 

Tell us the latest news about your local trial site

Please tell the GEN office if you know of a trial site that has been decontaminated. See GEN's contact details.