The Cornell piece quoted by Bob "because they were thought to be an intermediate host of white pine blister rust." seems to me to be a good example of weasel words in action: They were thought? In the past tense, as if they are no longer thought to be intermediate hosts? As far as I know, they are just as much a potential intermediate host now as they were a century ago - except in the case of the few newer sorts thought to be resistant. My state, Maryland, allows the growing of Ribes and related plants. Neighboring West Virginia does not. Jim McKenney Montgomery County, Maryland, USA, USDA zone 7 where I wish I had a nice slice of gooseberry pie to warm me up today.