11.20.11 Organic Research and Resources

University of Minnesota and University of Manitoba Cover Crop Research
The University of Minnesota has posted a website reporting on its research into canola as a cover crop for pre-emergence weed/disease suppression. The site reports on a study to determine the effectiveness of several pesticide-free methods of killing canola to maximize weed suppression in the production of strawberries, pumpkins, and fresh-market new potatoes. One method the researchers evaluate is the roller-crimper, also called a blade roller, which has also been the focus of recent University of Manitoba research into organic zero-till systems.

Organic Essentials Shopping Guide, and more from the Organic Center
The Organic Center, through its program Generations of Organic, has produced a pocket shopping guide that helps consumers assess the pesticide risks of fruits and vegetables. Read more at http://www.generationsoforganic.org/in-the-kitchen/pocket-guide/. See also Transforming Jane Doe's Diet and the Nutritional Quality Index for more on food and pesticide risks.

Are you concerned about Monsanto's new genetically engineered sweet corn?
US-based Food and Water Watch will be delivering petition signatures to major US grocery store chains. Sign the petition at http://action.foodandwaterwatch.org/p/dia/action/public/?action_KEY=8405