ASTA Member Testifies Before Maine Hearing on Treated Seed

During an April 15 hearing of the Maine Joint Committee on Agriculture, Conservation, and Forestry, a representative from Seedway testified on the importance of treated seeds for farmers. The testimony was regarding LD 1323, a bill that would ban neonicotinoid products and neonicotinoid treated seeds from being used in Maine unless a producer is granted an emergency waiver. Adam Robertson of Seedway noted that taking away such a targeted and useful tool would harm producers more than it would help. ASTA continues to stress that seed treatments allow for the precise application of pesticides, biological  organisms, and other ingredients to suppress, control, or repel plant pests and diseases so farmers have more certainty that the seeds will germinate and grow to a strong, healthy plant. Seed treatments protect the genetics of the seed and help a developing seedling during its most vulnerable time. These tools enable farmers to do more with less, and to meet current and emerging challenges. If these tools are taken away, farmers will be forced to rely on methods that require more product and are less targeted.

ASTA will continue to work with its partners in Maine and across the United States to educate lawmakers on these important issues. If you are interested in learning more about how to advocate in your state, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Jordan Gregory, ASTA’s Director of State Government Affairs.