The State - News from June 4, 1986

Researchers at UC Berkeley said they will delay open-air testing of genetically altered bacteria intended to prevent potato plants from freezing, pending further discussions with residents of Modoc County, where the tests are to be conducted. The county Board of Supervisors has passed a resolution opposing the experiment--said to be the nation’s first open-air testing of genetically altered bacteria--on grounds that public apprehensions might hurt the sale of potatoes grown in the area. No testing is scheduled until next fall in any case, a university spokesman said.