Scientists are on the cutting-edge of finding out how to maximize natural plant defenses and the fresh produce industry could play a valuable role. Learn how research from the San Diego, Calif.-based Salk Institute for Biological Sciences could impact specialty crop producers in California and Arizona. Salk researcher Joseph Noel's groundbreaking studies focus on uncovering special natural defense mechanisms in the wild tomato. Scientists could use those natural chemicals to protect crops from fungus or water mold, for example. Now that's good science!  

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In the specialty crop industry, we’ve got the home field advantage. While modern medicine saves lives, so do specialty crop farmers. Didn’t know you were a hero, did you? It’s time we stopped simply defending ourselves against the extreme environmentalists who try to take away our water, our land and our way of farming. We’re on the winning team. Our fresh produce offers unparalleled nutrition. Let’s change the discussion from conservation to nutrition. It may be a message we’ve all heard before, but it’s a message that America now needs desperately.

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