Organic Crop Improvement Association (OCIA International) is one of the world’s oldest, and most trusted leaders in the organic certification industry. OCIA International is a not-for-profit agricultural organization dedicated to providing the highest quality organic certification services and access to global organic markets.
As producers of certified organic crops, OCIA International is committed to environmentally sound stewardship.OCIA International brings this action on behalf of its members, some of whom are at risk of being contaminated by Defendants’ GM seed and then being accused by Defendants of patent infringement. OCIA International joined the lawsuit to protect organic integrity and in doing so, fulfilled Article 1.7 of their Bylaws that states one of the purposes of the organization: “To do such lawful acts and things necessary and proper to promote the general welfare of organic farmers, organic agriculture, and the organic foods industry.” The OCIA votes to join the lawsuit.