A group of environmentalists is seeking to overturn a Board of Agriculture decision allowing the import of genetically modified algae.

The group, called Na Maka O Hawai'i Nei, or the eyes of our Hawai'i, filed a petition Friday seeking a contested case hearing on the board's decision last month allowing Big Island algae farmer Mera Pharmaceuticals Inc. to import genetically modified algae for trial production of pharmaceutical drugs.

The production of high-value drugs could be a boost for the state's $27.7 million aquaculture industry, which currently grows algae for use in human and animal nutritional supplements but not drugs. However, research into genetically modified organisms also raises concerns about possible health and environmental risks.

State and company officials maintain the risks of such research are minimal. However, environmental activists, farmers and others have expressed concerns the algae could contaminate crops, harm endangered species and soil the state's reputation as an environmentally conscious community if accidentally released into the environment.

The board denied Mera one permit, but has allowed the company to import seven other strains of genetically modified algae. The petition would affect Mera's ability to import genetically modified algae, said agriculture department spokeswoman Janelle Saneishi. Mera plans to begin trials on the algae within months. The trials will be enclosed to prevent the algae from coming into contact with the outside environment.

The petition was forwarded to the attorney general's office, Saneishi said. "They have to determine where it goes from there."

Should the Board of Agriculture decide not to hold a contested case hearing, the matter can be brought before the Hawai'i Supreme Court, said Henry Curtis, executive for environmental group Life of the Land, which joined in the petition.

If such a hearing is held, a hearing officer would weigh the issues in the case and make recommendations to the board. However, there's little precedent for the handling of contested case hearings within the Department of Agriculture.

"It's the first on genetic engineering that I know of so yeah, it will break a lot of new ground," Curtis said.