Original Roundup Ready Soybean Patent is Expiring

One of the points of discussion at the field day I went to in West Alton last week was the expiration on the original roundup ready trait patent. The patent is due to expire for the 2015 crop year.  What that means is that farmers will be able to save seed from soybeans that have only the original roundup ready trait.  farmers will also need to make sure that the variety they want to save is not also patented. Why is this important?  Shortly after harvest you will be at least  thinking about next year's seed.  The seed you plant in 2014 could be held for planting if it meets all the other caveats.  The other major consideration is that the seed is to be for personal use only. Buying from neighbors or selling to neighbors will also be prohibited.   The Monsanto website contains all the information you need to consider.  Be sure to read the whole article.