Farmers have until July 28 to comment on biotech crops planted in national refuges in the Southeast. Alabama Farmers Federation Board Member Ted Grantland farms land in Decatur’s Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge. Cooperative agreements allow farmers to harvest part of the crop and leave the rest for wildlife habitat, feed and weed control.

“This affects our farm,” said Grantland. “The U.S. has the most abundant, safest and cheapest food supply in the world. American farmers…work hard to feed the world, and genetically modified crops contribute to that.”

Farmers have planted biotech crops in refuges since the mid-1990s. However, a 2012 settlement between U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and environmental groups requires additional studies on the impact of biotech crops in the Southeast.

“Genetically modified crops increase efficiency and are approved by the USDA and other federal agencies,” said Federation Director of National Legislative Programs Mitt Walker. “Unfortunately, several groups are using government red tape to challenge their use. Farmers need to let their voices be heard.”

To submit comments, visit http://bit.ly/12DQGXr, email fw4_gmcpea@fws.gov, or write NEPA Coordinator, US Fish and Wildlife Service, 1875 Century Center Drive, Suite 400, Atlanta, GA 30345.