[ Georgia ] Georgia ‘ s pine plantations are becoming a testing ground for genetically engineered trees, environmental groups charge. Georgia has issued permits for at least six releases of genetically modified pitch and loblolly pine trees. Concerns about genetic engineering focus on the unintended transfer of modified traits, such as faster growth and insect resistance, to natural forests, according to the nonprofit Global Justice Ecology Project. Regardless of genetic modifications, the Dogwood Alliance opposes pine plantations. Ecologically, such tree farms don ‘ t qualify as forests, said Andrew Goldberg, campaign director for the Dogwood Alliance.

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