Measure H:
Mendocino County California's GMO Ordinance

Where is Mendocino County?

Measure H Wins!

On March 2, 2004, Mendocino County, California became the first county in the United States to ban the growing of genetically modified crops and animals. Measure H was supported by 57% of the voters.

What is Measure H?

Measure H prohibits the propagation of genetically engineered crops and animals in Mendocino County. (see text of the Initiative). Consumers can still buy GMO-containing foods at the supermarket. Measure H has no effect on biotechnology in medicine, or on the sale of such medicine in the County.

• Measure H protects Mendocino County's farms and wineries and the "clean" reputation of our agricultural products.
• Measure H protects the County's fisheries and forests from contamination by GMO salmon or redwood trees.
• Measure H protects private property from GMO pollen contamination and safeguards home vegetable gardens.
• Measure H protects Mendocino County property values.
• Measure H protects you and your family from known, and unidentified health risks by providing you the option of buying locally grown foods, free of GMO contamination!

Who Introduced Measure H?

Measure H was conceived, put on the ballot, and was promoted by local farmers and thousands of residents who want the food, fish and forests that grow in Mendocino County to be free of GMO contamination.

Who Opposed Measure H?

CropLife America, a national coalition of biotech, pesticide and fertilizer companies including Monsanto, Dow and DuPont, funded the campaign against Measure H. This same organization defeated a popular Oregon initiative that would have required labeling of genetically modified products. They used mass mailings, half-truths and lies to confuse people about the effects of the initiative in their efforts to defeat Measure H.

Measure H Campaign Links

• GMO-Free Mendocino
• GMO-Free Mendocino wins lawsuit against Biotech Industry

Read More on Measure H

What is Mendocino County's Measure H & What Does it Have to do with Food Democracy?
- by Britt Bailey