Page 74 - Winter2008

In addition to seeking redress from Con- NAIS forces weren’t as organized, there is no law authorizing NAIS, and
gress, the opposition to NAIS is seeking relief therefore the grassroots community has a little more breathing room. Each
from state legislatures. Since the USDA’s state also differs in the strength of its organics and local foods movement,
preferred method for implementing NAIS is as well as the strength of the pro-NAIS forces (the feedlots and meat pack-
through state legislatures, state laws barring a ers, the technology companies and the industrial agriculture associations).
mandatory or coercive NAIS could significantly Depending on the existing laws and the strength of the pro-NAIS forces,
constrain the program. Four states have already the people of each state have to make a decision about the best strategy
passed laws that create roadblocks to NAIS. for their state at a specific point in time. Each state, however, is a critical
Arizona, Kentucky, Missouri, and Nebraska have part of this fight!
all passed laws forbidding their state agencies
from mandating or forcing anyone into NAIS. CONCLUSION
Kentucky’s bill contains important additional Stopping NAIS is a long-term battle, and winning it will require the
provisions addressing coercive measures. An efforts of both consumers and farmers all over the country. The Weston
informal coalition of organizations is currently A. Price Foundation sends out action alerts at many of the critical mo-
working on more bills in states across the coun- ments, and it’s important that everyone take action in response! You can
try, and the 2009 legislative session promises to also find out more information on what is happening at the federal level
be busy. and in states across the country at www.FarmAndRanchFreedom.org and
The exact kind of bill that will be introduced www.LibertyArk.net. If you are willing and able to devote a little more
varies from state to state. That’s because each time to helping in the fight, there are numerous things you can do to: (1)
state is starting from a different position. In put out educational materials at your local farmers’ market, feed store, or
some states, pro-NAIS forces pushed through riding stable; (2) send a letter to the editor of your local newspaper; (3)
legislation to create a mandatory NAIS before have a face-to-face meeting with your state legislators, and ask them to
most people were even aware of the issue. In support a bill to stop NAIS; (4) organize a public meeting to educate your
those states, people face the prospect of their community. You don’t need to do all of these things. What’s important is
state agency implementing a mandatory program to do something! You can find materials to help with all of these efforts
whenever it feels like it! In other states, the pro- at www.farmandranchfreedom.org or by calling 866-687-6452.

A VISIT TO DRAKES BAY OYSTER FARMS

Participants on the annual Wise Traditions farm tour had the pleasure of visiting Kevin and Mary Lunny’s farm in
the heart of the gorgeous Point Reyes National Seashore. We were fascinated to learn how oysters are raised with great
care for the sustainability and conservation of this area. Our appreciation of the oyster grew as we learned of their ability
to process as much as 55 gallons of water per day, filtering out pollutants and either eating them or shaping them into
harmless packets deposited at the bottom of the bay. Drake’s Estero has been in commercial oyster production for nearly
100 years and is the site of the last operating oyster cannery in California. It helps keep the Drakes Estero healthy for a
wide variety of flora and fauna and is a sustainable, environmentally friendly food source.
Drakes Bay Oyster Farm needs your help. The National Park Service plans to shut down the historic farm, but your
participation can help protect this sustainable shellfish. Visit www.alsamarin.org to support the campaign to save the
farm.

LEFT: Kevin Lunny
explains the fine points
of oyster cultivation

RIGHT: A WAPF-
approved sandwich,
containing artisan
cheese and a
generous portion of
butter, enjoyed by farm
tour attendees.
Photo courtesy Lynn Wright.

74 Wise Traditions WINTER 2008