Comment submitted by Jason Delborne

I support a transparent, rigorous, and science-based EPA review of KNOCKOUT SWD. As a researcher who studies the governance of emerging biotechnologies, I see the need to consider new tools that may have fewer off-target and environmental effects than traditional pesticides. I also recognize the uncertainties the surround new genetic strategies that would be deployed into agricultural and less managed environments. As research continues on gene drive strategies, there is tremendous value of testing and monitoring self-limiting genetic technologies that do not persist or spread through wild populations. For example, pgSIT addresses two longstanding limitations of conventional SIT by eliminating irradiation and solving the challenge of sex separation. Yet, the genetic constructs will not persist and spread on their own, as would a theoretical gene drive.