saving seeds - heirloom plants

[forestdale]

http://www.seedsavers.org/Home.asp

"The genetic diversity of the world's food crops is eroding at an unprecedented and accelerating rate. The vegetables and fruits currently being lost are the result of thousands of years of adaptation and selection in diverse ecological niches around the world. Each variety is genetically unique and has developed resistances to the diseases and pests with which it evolved. Plant breeders use the old varieties to breed resistance into modern crops that are constantly being attacked by rapidly evolving diseases and pests. Without these infusions of genetic diversity, food production is at risk from epidemics and infestations."

[kimmee]

I have been reading about heirloom seeds for a few years now - thank you for bringing it to everyone's attention - we have almost lost so many varieties and the engineered seeds that National market farmers are planting have been corrupted - In our area you are supposed to designate weather you use engineered or heirloom seeds and the commitee can protest - the cross pollination is so extreme and the engineered seeds can wipe out heirloom crops just by birds and Bugs!!