Local attorney to host info session on corn lawsuit

Tuesday, July 28, 2015

A local attorney is hosting an informational meeting July 31 to answer questions about how a lawsuit against Syngenta could affect local farmers.

The 8:30 a.m. meeting will be hosted at the Putnam Inn on North Jackson Street in Greencastle.

Attorney Mike Goss has agreed to share important news with anyone who grew corn, or had corn grown on their land, in the past two years.

Syngenta, a Swiss company, marketed and sold genetically modified seed in the U.S. before it was officially approved for consumption in China. Syngenta promised the seed would be accepted in all major markets. China later rejected all U.S. corn for a while because of possible contamination with the unapproved seed. Since the largest consumer of American corn rejected all U.S. shipments during that time period, prices plummeted in 2013 and 2014. The National Grain and Feed Association projected losses at $1 to $2.9 billion dollars.

Farmers may be able to recover 6 ½ to 70 cents for each bushel of corn the land produced in 2013 and 2014 from a seed company whose actions drove down prices -- even if the Syngenta seed was not planted. Examples of how damages would be calculated will be included.

Goss is working with an Indianapolis law firm, Wagner Reese, LLP, and a Texas firm, Watts Guerra, LLP, seeking damages for farmers from Syngenta. Goss said his job is to get the word out to farmers and landowners in this area.

Participants will have a chance to ask any questions necessary. Persons may call Goss' office at 765-301-4494 if interested in attending. It is encouraged to share the information with other area farmers. Everyone must make a reservation.

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