Hypothetical Scenario

ArborGen (a biotech company) has expressed a desire to plant test plots of genetically modified eucalyptus here at FGCU! This GM eucalyptus has been engineered with enhanced cold tolerance. This allows it to grow not only in Southwest Florida, but potentially as far north as South Carolina. As an eco-aware citizen, the USDA has subpoenaed you to testify on the merits and pitfalls of this plan.

Eucalyptus plants can be found on all parts of the earth. They range from being the size of a small shrub, to taking on the form of a tree (some as tall as 300 ft). They generally have long slender leaves with flower buds that vary from white, to yellow, to red, to pink. They are mostly found in tropical areas due to their cold intolerance. They are known to be excellent sources of wood as well as great draining and absorbing tools. One downfall of the eucalyptus is the fact that they can often be fire hazards due to the oil that is produced on its leaves.

Genetically-modifying this species so that it will have a higher tolerance to the cold and adding it to the campus of FGCU, would have many benefits. It would be a beautiful addition to the university and would prove to be an excellent source of aesthetic pleasure. Unfortunately though, there would be a few concerns to consider. Instrinsically, the eucalyptus could be a fire hazard here in Florida. As previously mentioned, the oil on the leaves increase it's chance of setting on fire. In an area that is known for dry spells, it may not be the best idea to place such a species so close to a major university. An extrinsic concern would be the fact that FGCU's wetlands are a major component of the school. The eucalyptus, as previously stated, is known to drain and absorb water. If this were to take place on campus, it would mean death for many of the species and habitats on campus. Despite all of this, I think it would be beneficial to conduct further cost-effective research on this genteically-modified species and to weigh the pros and cons. In addition, the monitoring and maintenance of this tree could be included in the course requirements of classes held here at FGCU as well as be opened up as a service learning option. This way, the cost of outside labor would be minimized.

In this case, I believe that the benefits outweigh the risks. By trying such a unique experiment, FGCU would stand out as an environmental pioneer and would receive much merit and accolades for their courage and ingenuity. This would be beneficial to not only the students and staff, but for many other states who could be introduced to this cold-tolerant eucalyptus.