[PCA] Genetically engineered creeping bentgrass, Agrostis stolonifera: Comments on deregulation requested by March 5. (fwd)

[Plant Conservation]

---------- Forwarded message ----------
Date: Fri, 16 Jan 2004 15:31:52 -0500
From: Bruce_MacBryde at aphis.usda.gov
To: plant at plantconservation.org
Subject: Genetically engineered creeping bentgrass,
     Agrostis stolonifera: Comments on deregulation requested by March 5.

A petition to deregulate creeping bentgrass (Agrostis stolonifera)
resistant to the herbicide glyphosate (Roundup, Touchdown) is being
considered by USDA/APHIS.  This perennial species is the main turfgrass
used in temperate regions worldwide for golf course putting greens, and
some fairways and tees.  A notice including agency questions is in the Jan.
5, 2004, U.S. Federal Register (69 FR 315-317), seeking comments by March
5, 2004.  A press release is at:

http://www.aphis.usda.gov/lpa/news/2004/01/bentgras_brs.html

The Federal Register notice is at:
http://www.aphis.usda.gov/brs/aphisdocs/03_10401p_fr_pc_pet.pdf

A detailed APHIS preliminary risk assessment is at:
http://www.aphis.usda.gov/brs/aphisdocs/03_10401p_ra.pdf

The Monsanto/Scotts petition file (about 470 pages) is at:
http://www.aphis.usda.gov/brs/aphisdocs/03_10401p.pdf

After review and evaluation of the comments, APHIS will prepare an
environmental document, which will also be announced in the Federal
Register.  APHIS eventually can approve the petition in whole or in part,
or deny the petition if unregulated release into the environment would be a
plant pest risk.