From apples supposedly poisoned by the growth chemical Alar to the alleged commercial viability of wind power, green groups have been wrong at least as often as they have been proved right.

FORBES: David Frum: A Republican Party that can win young voters. He's right!

The American apple industry plunged into utter disarray in 1989 after a 60 Minutes segment alleged cancer risks from Alar, a chemical used to synchronize the ripening of fruit on apple trees.

FORBES: Fear-Mongering, Junk Science And NRDC

Agricultural-product disparagement statutes, which were dreamt up by a congressman after alarms over the use of Alar, an agro-chemical, damaged his apple business in 1989, shield farmers from criticism in a way no other industry can claim.

ECONOMIST: Food-disparagement laws

To them, it is entirely understandable that low-risk things like alar, cyclamates and nuclear power are feared or banned, while hazardous activities like riding a bicycle, eating a high-fat diet and driving at night are as prevalent as ever.

FORBES: Nothing Comes Between Me And My SUV