seed industry has focused on developing hybrid varieties and patenting new genetically engineered varieties. However, breeding crops specifically for organic production is still in its early stages. Some of the research underway includes public and participatory breeding programs to develop varieties with natural disease resistance suited to organic systems. Workshops have been educating farmers on participatory breeding. While there are still no commercially available varieties specifically bred for organics, programs are making progress in developing organic wheat, squash, and other varieties through on-farm trials and farmer collaboration. Further development of organic seed varieties will rely on participatory breeding models and addressing issues around farmer compensation and seed distribution.
The document provides guidelines for conducting Distinctiveness, Uniformity, and Stability (DUS) testing on maize varieties for plant variety protection under the Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers' Rights Act, 2001 in India. It discusses the requirements for DUS testing including planting material, staff, facilities, test guidelines, and data collection. It also includes details on the assessment of distinctiveness, uniformity, stability, characteristics for observation, technical questionnaires, and examples of characteristics for leaf angle and attitude. The document aims to standardize the DUS testing process for maize varieties seeking protection and registration in India.
The document summarizes techniques for testing varietal purity in crops, including morphological, chemical, biochemical, and molecular markers. It begins with an introduction to the importance of varietal purity testing in India's seed industry. It then describes various morphological methods like seed morphology, seedling examination, grow-out tests, and mechanical vision. It also covers common chemical tests. Biochemical methods discussed are electrophoresis techniques. The document concludes with an overview of molecular marker techniques like RAPD, SCAR, SSR, and STS markers used for varietal purity testing.
This document discusses plant introduction as a method of plant breeding. It begins by defining plant introduction as transferring plant genotypes or groups of genotypes to new areas where they have not been previously grown. The document then covers the history of plant introduction, the different types of plant introduction, the purposes of plant introduction, agencies involved in plant introduction, and the process of acclimatization. It also discusses the merits and demerits of plant introduction as a plant breeding method.
The document outlines seed certification procedures, which ensure quality seeds for farmers. Seed certification verifies genetic identity and purity, germination rates, and freedom from diseases. It involves registering seed producers, inspecting seed fields for standards, processing and testing seeds, and issuing certificates for certified seeds. The goal is to provide high-quality seeds of improved varieties to increase crop production.
This document summarizes different methods for testing genetically modified (GM) seed and trait purity, including DNA-based, protein-based, and bioassay methods. DNA-based methods include endpoint PCR, real-time PCR, and other technologies to detect the presence of GM DNA. Protein-based methods include lateral flow strip tests and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) to detect GM proteins. Bioassays involve growing seeds in controlled conditions and observing for trait expression. The document provides details on ELISA tests, lateral flow strips, electrophoresis, polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and considerations for calculating and expressing testing results.
Maintenance breeding is the branch of plant breeding that deals with producing and maintaining breeder seed to preserve the genetic purity and identity of plant varieties. It involves continuously producing fresh breeder seed through methods like growing isolated plots and bulk selection to remove off-types. Proper handling and roguing of the breeder seed crop is crucial. The breeder seed is then used to produce foundation seed while maintaining a carry-over stock to safeguard against losses. Maintenance breeding helps purify varieties and parental lines, prevent genetic deterioration, support quality seed production, and prolong the life of varieties.
Marker assisted breeding of biotic stress resistance in Rice Senthil Natesan
A marker is a DNA sequence which serves as a signpost/flag post
linked to the trait/gene of interest and is co-inherited along with
the trait
Presence of specific allele of marker = Presence of specific allele of target gene based on the concept the MAS practiced -R.M. Sundaram
Directorate Rice of Research, Hydrabad , July 3rd 2009, CPMB&B, TNAU presentation
Single seed descent (SSD) is a method of rapidly inbreeding plant populations by advancing generations through growing individual seeds from each plant in isolation. It separates the inbreeding and selection phases of plant breeding to speed up the process. With SSD, a single seed is harvested from each F2 plant and bulked, then the bulk is planted to produce the F3 generation. This continues for several generations until homozygosity is achieved, at which point lines can be tested. SSD allows for faster generation advancement than pedigree breeding methods while maintaining genetic diversity from the original cross. Some disadvantages are the inability to track superior early generation plants and reduced ability to select through progeny performance.
The document provides guidelines for conducting Distinctiveness, Uniformity, and Stability (DUS) testing on maize varieties for plant variety protection under the Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers' Rights Act, 2001 in India. It discusses the requirements for DUS testing including planting material, staff, facilities, test guidelines, and data collection. It also includes details on the assessment of distinctiveness, uniformity, stability, characteristics for observation, technical questionnaires, and examples of characteristics for leaf angle and attitude. The document aims to standardize the DUS testing process for maize varieties seeking protection and registration in India.
The document summarizes techniques for testing varietal purity in crops, including morphological, chemical, biochemical, and molecular markers. It begins with an introduction to the importance of varietal purity testing in India's seed industry. It then describes various morphological methods like seed morphology, seedling examination, grow-out tests, and mechanical vision. It also covers common chemical tests. Biochemical methods discussed are electrophoresis techniques. The document concludes with an overview of molecular marker techniques like RAPD, SCAR, SSR, and STS markers used for varietal purity testing.
This document discusses plant introduction as a method of plant breeding. It begins by defining plant introduction as transferring plant genotypes or groups of genotypes to new areas where they have not been previously grown. The document then covers the history of plant introduction, the different types of plant introduction, the purposes of plant introduction, agencies involved in plant introduction, and the process of acclimatization. It also discusses the merits and demerits of plant introduction as a plant breeding method.
The document outlines seed certification procedures, which ensure quality seeds for farmers. Seed certification verifies genetic identity and purity, germination rates, and freedom from diseases. It involves registering seed producers, inspecting seed fields for standards, processing and testing seeds, and issuing certificates for certified seeds. The goal is to provide high-quality seeds of improved varieties to increase crop production.
This document summarizes different methods for testing genetically modified (GM) seed and trait purity, including DNA-based, protein-based, and bioassay methods. DNA-based methods include endpoint PCR, real-time PCR, and other technologies to detect the presence of GM DNA. Protein-based methods include lateral flow strip tests and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) to detect GM proteins. Bioassays involve growing seeds in controlled conditions and observing for trait expression. The document provides details on ELISA tests, lateral flow strips, electrophoresis, polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and considerations for calculating and expressing testing results.
Maintenance breeding is the branch of plant breeding that deals with producing and maintaining breeder seed to preserve the genetic purity and identity of plant varieties. It involves continuously producing fresh breeder seed through methods like growing isolated plots and bulk selection to remove off-types. Proper handling and roguing of the breeder seed crop is crucial. The breeder seed is then used to produce foundation seed while maintaining a carry-over stock to safeguard against losses. Maintenance breeding helps purify varieties and parental lines, prevent genetic deterioration, support quality seed production, and prolong the life of varieties.
Marker assisted breeding of biotic stress resistance in Rice Senthil Natesan
A marker is a DNA sequence which serves as a signpost/flag post
linked to the trait/gene of interest and is co-inherited along with
the trait
Presence of specific allele of marker = Presence of specific allele of target gene based on the concept the MAS practiced -R.M. Sundaram
Directorate Rice of Research, Hydrabad , July 3rd 2009, CPMB&B, TNAU presentation
Single seed descent (SSD) is a method of rapidly inbreeding plant populations by advancing generations through growing individual seeds from each plant in isolation. It separates the inbreeding and selection phases of plant breeding to speed up the process. With SSD, a single seed is harvested from each F2 plant and bulked, then the bulk is planted to produce the F3 generation. This continues for several generations until homozygosity is achieved, at which point lines can be tested. SSD allows for faster generation advancement than pedigree breeding methods while maintaining genetic diversity from the original cross. Some disadvantages are the inability to track superior early generation plants and reduced ability to select through progeny performance.
Pl. PATH-605 Introduction to certification. International scenario of certifi...Harshvardhan Gaikwad
Pl. PATH-605 (Principles and Procedure of Certification). During this course of Ph,D., I presented on topic: Introduction to certification. International scenario of certification and role of ISTA, EPPO, OECD etc. in certification and quality control. In which the seed certification and certification authorities are explained.
Maintenance breeding deals with producing and maintaining breeder seed and genetic purity of crop varieties. It involves selecting high quality plants, growing them in isolated fields, and removing off-type plants to prevent genetic deterioration over time. The document outlines procedures for maintaining nucleus seed stocks of new and established varieties, including harvesting individual plants, growing progeny in isolated double rows, and discarding any off-type plants before harvest. It also describes maintaining parental lines of hybrid crops through hand pollination and growing inbred lines in isolated fields with rogueing.
The document discusses guidelines for releasing and notifying crop cultivars in India. It explains that releasing a cultivar makes it available for public cultivation and allows farmers to choose varieties, while notification regulates seed quality under the Seeds Act. The process involves variety evaluation through regional trials over multiple locations and years before the State and Central Variety Release Committees decide on release. Notified varieties can then be certified to ensure standard seed quality. Advantages of notification include compulsory certification for seed production and regulation of quality for seed sales. Examples of notified rice, wheat and black gram varieties in different states are also provided.
Seed certification is a system for quality control of seed production that identifies superior varieties, provides high quality seeds, and ensures genetic and physical purity. It involves establishing certification standards, inspecting seed fields, testing seed samples, and issuing certificates. The key goals are to identify new varieties, supply quality seeds, and ensure freedom from diseases, weeds, and good germination. Certification is overseen by state Seed Certification Agencies or the National Seed Corporation and involves inspection, testing, labeling, and record-keeping at multiple stages of seed production and processing.
This document discusses guidelines for conducting morphological tests to assess varietal purity and distinctness, uniformity, and stability (DUS) for plant variety registration. It outlines procedures for grow-out tests, including sampling methodology, field layout, observation criteria, and data analysis. The key aspects covered are distinguishing variety characteristics, minimum sample sizes, isolation distances, generation systems, and national test guideline recommendations for important crops to standardize DUS testing.
Definitions, variety production release and notification in india and pakistsudha2555
1. The document discusses concepts related to variety release and seed production systems in India and other countries like Pakistan. It defines key terms and describes procedures for variety testing, release, and notification.
2. Variety testing in India involves evaluation through station trials, multilocation trials, national trials, and on-farm trials over several years before potential release. Superior varieties identified through this process may be recommended for release.
3. Release and notification involves recommendation by variety release committees at the state and national level, followed by an official notification from the Government of India allowing commercial seed production.
Isolation distance refers to the minimum separation required between crop varieties to maintain seed purity. There are three main types of isolation: spatial, temporal, and physical barriers. Spatial isolation involves separating fields by distance, with greater distances required for cross-pollinated crops versus self-pollinated crops. Temporal isolation is achieved by staggering planting dates of different varieties by 15-20 days. Physical barriers use border crops or bags to prevent cross-pollination. Factors like pollination method, pollen viability, disease pressure, and seed class influence isolation distance needs. Techniques like block planting, only collecting central seeds, and using barrier crops can reduce isolation distance requirements.
This document discusses progresses and challenges for breeding climate resilient crop cultivars. It summarizes that plant breeding has improved crop yields, disease resistance, and winter hardiness over time. However, climate change is posing new challenges for plant breeding like drought tolerance, flooding resistance, and adapting to more extreme weather. Future opportunities for plant breeding include using genomic selection, gene editing, big data, and automatic phenotyping to develop crop varieties adapted to future climate conditions faster and more precisely. More research is still needed, especially on root systems and understanding different testing environments.
This document discusses general combining ability (GCA) and specific combining ability (SCA) in plant breeding. GCA is due to additive genetic effects and refers to a genotype's average performance in crosses. SCA is due to non-additive genetic effects and refers to when certain crosses perform better or worse than expected. GCA is estimated using half-sib mating and helps identify best parents for hybridization. SCA is estimated using full-sib mating and helps identify best cross combinations. The document outlines procedures for estimating and utilizing GCA and SCA over multiple generations or seasons in plant breeding programs.
The document discusses plant breeding strategies for increasing salt tolerance, chilling tolerance, and freezing tolerance in plants. It covers mechanisms of tolerance, classification of tolerance levels in different plant species, screening techniques, and strategies for breeding resistant varieties. Developing salt, chilling, and freezing tolerant crop varieties through plant breeding is a more effective and long-lasting approach than soil reclamation.
This document discusses various methods for assessing genetic purity in plants, including morphological, chemical, and electrophoresis-based methods. Morphological methods involve examining seed or plant traits under magnification or in a grow-out test. Chemical methods analyze seed components like secondary metabolites and proteins. Electrophoresis separates proteins or DNA based on size and charge, allowing comparison of banding patterns between varieties. Together, these methods allow testing seed samples against a pure reference to validate their genetic purity or identify off-types.
Genetic purity testing is important to ensure seeds conform to the characteristics of the intended variety. There are minimum genetic purity standards for different seed classes. Grow-out testing involves growing out the seed sample alongside a standard variety to observe morphological characteristics. For grow-out testing, the seed sample is sown in a controlled environment using recommended agronomic practices. Throughout growth, plants are examined and any off-types compared to the standard variety are recorded. The percentage of off-types is calculated to determine if the sample meets the genetic purity standards. Grow-out testing helps ensure farmers receive true-to-type seeds and seed producers maintain variety integrity.
This document describes the System of Wheat Intensification (SWI) method for increasing wheat yields. SWI involves widely spacing wheat plants to allow for better root and shoot growth through increased sunlight, aeration and organic matter. Key practices include line sowing seeds at 20x20cm spacing, using improved seeds, seed treatment, incorporating compost, and mechanical weeding. Trials in Uttar Pradesh found SWI increased the number of tillers per plant to 25-30 compared to 4-5 with normal methods. Panicle length and grains per panicle also increased. While harvest data was not yet available, SWI showed potential for 25% higher grain yields in a sustainable way with lower seed rates and chemical inputs
The document discusses seed certification in India. It states that seed certification is a regulatory process designed to maintain and provide quality seeds to farmers. It ensures genetic purity, freedom from diseases and weeds, and good germination of certified seeds. Seed certification is done according to the Seeds Act of 1966 and Seed Rules of 1968 by state seed certification agencies or the National Seed Corporation where state agencies do not exist. It also discusses the different classes of seeds - breeder seeds, foundation seeds and certified seeds - and the generation system of seed multiplication.
General Principles of Seed Production TechnologyRoshan Parihar
This document discusses principles of seed production, including genetic and agronomic principles.
Genetically, seed purity can deteriorate due to factors like natural crossing, genetic drift, mutations and mechanical mixtures. Methods to prevent deterioration include maintaining isolation distances, roguing fields to remove off-type plants, and growing seed crops only in adapted areas. Seed certification verifies genetic purity and quality.
Agronomically, seed production requires selecting suitable climates and soil conditions for the crop. Isolation of seed plots, selection of high-quality seed sources and varieties, and following best practices for seed treatment, sowing method and timing are important to maximize yield and seed quality.
The document discusses genetic purity testing of commercial hybrids. It describes various methods used to test genetic purity, including grow out tests, chemical tests, electrophoresis, and molecular markers. Grow out tests involve growing a seed sample and analyzing morphological characteristics. Chemical tests examine enzymes or fluorescence. Electrophoresis separates biomolecules like DNA and proteins based on size. Molecular markers like RAPD and SSR analyze DNA patterns to identify varieties. Maintaining genetic purity is important for hybrid seed quality and production.
Seed Production and Variety Development for Organic SystemsGardening
This document summarizes the current state of breeding crop varieties specifically for organic production in the United States. While interest is growing, breeding for organics is still in its early stages. Some public universities and small companies are conducting research into developing varieties with traits suited to organic systems through participatory breeding with farmers. However, no commercially available seed varieties have been bred specifically for organic production yet. Researchers are seeking to establish new models for organic seed distribution and farmer compensation for participation in variety development.
Seed Production and Variety Development for Organic SystemsSeeds
Breeding crop plants specifically for organic production is still in its early stages. While some universities and seed companies are developing varieties suited for organic systems through public breeding programs and farmer collaboration, no commercially available seeds have been bred exclusively for organic use. There is debate around whether organic seed production should be mandated and whether the benefits of exclusively organic seeds outweigh the increased costs and limited availability that a requirement could create for farmers during the initial years. Many in the organic industry believe variety development for organics needs to go beyond just using existing varieties under organic conditions, and instead focus on breeding new varieties tailored to the specific challenges of organic agriculture.
Pl. PATH-605 Introduction to certification. International scenario of certifi...Harshvardhan Gaikwad
Pl. PATH-605 (Principles and Procedure of Certification). During this course of Ph,D., I presented on topic: Introduction to certification. International scenario of certification and role of ISTA, EPPO, OECD etc. in certification and quality control. In which the seed certification and certification authorities are explained.
Maintenance breeding deals with producing and maintaining breeder seed and genetic purity of crop varieties. It involves selecting high quality plants, growing them in isolated fields, and removing off-type plants to prevent genetic deterioration over time. The document outlines procedures for maintaining nucleus seed stocks of new and established varieties, including harvesting individual plants, growing progeny in isolated double rows, and discarding any off-type plants before harvest. It also describes maintaining parental lines of hybrid crops through hand pollination and growing inbred lines in isolated fields with rogueing.
The document discusses guidelines for releasing and notifying crop cultivars in India. It explains that releasing a cultivar makes it available for public cultivation and allows farmers to choose varieties, while notification regulates seed quality under the Seeds Act. The process involves variety evaluation through regional trials over multiple locations and years before the State and Central Variety Release Committees decide on release. Notified varieties can then be certified to ensure standard seed quality. Advantages of notification include compulsory certification for seed production and regulation of quality for seed sales. Examples of notified rice, wheat and black gram varieties in different states are also provided.
Seed certification is a system for quality control of seed production that identifies superior varieties, provides high quality seeds, and ensures genetic and physical purity. It involves establishing certification standards, inspecting seed fields, testing seed samples, and issuing certificates. The key goals are to identify new varieties, supply quality seeds, and ensure freedom from diseases, weeds, and good germination. Certification is overseen by state Seed Certification Agencies or the National Seed Corporation and involves inspection, testing, labeling, and record-keeping at multiple stages of seed production and processing.
This document discusses guidelines for conducting morphological tests to assess varietal purity and distinctness, uniformity, and stability (DUS) for plant variety registration. It outlines procedures for grow-out tests, including sampling methodology, field layout, observation criteria, and data analysis. The key aspects covered are distinguishing variety characteristics, minimum sample sizes, isolation distances, generation systems, and national test guideline recommendations for important crops to standardize DUS testing.
Definitions, variety production release and notification in india and pakistsudha2555
1. The document discusses concepts related to variety release and seed production systems in India and other countries like Pakistan. It defines key terms and describes procedures for variety testing, release, and notification.
2. Variety testing in India involves evaluation through station trials, multilocation trials, national trials, and on-farm trials over several years before potential release. Superior varieties identified through this process may be recommended for release.
3. Release and notification involves recommendation by variety release committees at the state and national level, followed by an official notification from the Government of India allowing commercial seed production.
Isolation distance refers to the minimum separation required between crop varieties to maintain seed purity. There are three main types of isolation: spatial, temporal, and physical barriers. Spatial isolation involves separating fields by distance, with greater distances required for cross-pollinated crops versus self-pollinated crops. Temporal isolation is achieved by staggering planting dates of different varieties by 15-20 days. Physical barriers use border crops or bags to prevent cross-pollination. Factors like pollination method, pollen viability, disease pressure, and seed class influence isolation distance needs. Techniques like block planting, only collecting central seeds, and using barrier crops can reduce isolation distance requirements.
This document discusses progresses and challenges for breeding climate resilient crop cultivars. It summarizes that plant breeding has improved crop yields, disease resistance, and winter hardiness over time. However, climate change is posing new challenges for plant breeding like drought tolerance, flooding resistance, and adapting to more extreme weather. Future opportunities for plant breeding include using genomic selection, gene editing, big data, and automatic phenotyping to develop crop varieties adapted to future climate conditions faster and more precisely. More research is still needed, especially on root systems and understanding different testing environments.
This document discusses general combining ability (GCA) and specific combining ability (SCA) in plant breeding. GCA is due to additive genetic effects and refers to a genotype's average performance in crosses. SCA is due to non-additive genetic effects and refers to when certain crosses perform better or worse than expected. GCA is estimated using half-sib mating and helps identify best parents for hybridization. SCA is estimated using full-sib mating and helps identify best cross combinations. The document outlines procedures for estimating and utilizing GCA and SCA over multiple generations or seasons in plant breeding programs.
The document discusses plant breeding strategies for increasing salt tolerance, chilling tolerance, and freezing tolerance in plants. It covers mechanisms of tolerance, classification of tolerance levels in different plant species, screening techniques, and strategies for breeding resistant varieties. Developing salt, chilling, and freezing tolerant crop varieties through plant breeding is a more effective and long-lasting approach than soil reclamation.
This document discusses various methods for assessing genetic purity in plants, including morphological, chemical, and electrophoresis-based methods. Morphological methods involve examining seed or plant traits under magnification or in a grow-out test. Chemical methods analyze seed components like secondary metabolites and proteins. Electrophoresis separates proteins or DNA based on size and charge, allowing comparison of banding patterns between varieties. Together, these methods allow testing seed samples against a pure reference to validate their genetic purity or identify off-types.
Genetic purity testing is important to ensure seeds conform to the characteristics of the intended variety. There are minimum genetic purity standards for different seed classes. Grow-out testing involves growing out the seed sample alongside a standard variety to observe morphological characteristics. For grow-out testing, the seed sample is sown in a controlled environment using recommended agronomic practices. Throughout growth, plants are examined and any off-types compared to the standard variety are recorded. The percentage of off-types is calculated to determine if the sample meets the genetic purity standards. Grow-out testing helps ensure farmers receive true-to-type seeds and seed producers maintain variety integrity.
This document describes the System of Wheat Intensification (SWI) method for increasing wheat yields. SWI involves widely spacing wheat plants to allow for better root and shoot growth through increased sunlight, aeration and organic matter. Key practices include line sowing seeds at 20x20cm spacing, using improved seeds, seed treatment, incorporating compost, and mechanical weeding. Trials in Uttar Pradesh found SWI increased the number of tillers per plant to 25-30 compared to 4-5 with normal methods. Panicle length and grains per panicle also increased. While harvest data was not yet available, SWI showed potential for 25% higher grain yields in a sustainable way with lower seed rates and chemical inputs
The document discusses seed certification in India. It states that seed certification is a regulatory process designed to maintain and provide quality seeds to farmers. It ensures genetic purity, freedom from diseases and weeds, and good germination of certified seeds. Seed certification is done according to the Seeds Act of 1966 and Seed Rules of 1968 by state seed certification agencies or the National Seed Corporation where state agencies do not exist. It also discusses the different classes of seeds - breeder seeds, foundation seeds and certified seeds - and the generation system of seed multiplication.
General Principles of Seed Production TechnologyRoshan Parihar
This document discusses principles of seed production, including genetic and agronomic principles.
Genetically, seed purity can deteriorate due to factors like natural crossing, genetic drift, mutations and mechanical mixtures. Methods to prevent deterioration include maintaining isolation distances, roguing fields to remove off-type plants, and growing seed crops only in adapted areas. Seed certification verifies genetic purity and quality.
Agronomically, seed production requires selecting suitable climates and soil conditions for the crop. Isolation of seed plots, selection of high-quality seed sources and varieties, and following best practices for seed treatment, sowing method and timing are important to maximize yield and seed quality.
The document discusses genetic purity testing of commercial hybrids. It describes various methods used to test genetic purity, including grow out tests, chemical tests, electrophoresis, and molecular markers. Grow out tests involve growing a seed sample and analyzing morphological characteristics. Chemical tests examine enzymes or fluorescence. Electrophoresis separates biomolecules like DNA and proteins based on size. Molecular markers like RAPD and SSR analyze DNA patterns to identify varieties. Maintaining genetic purity is important for hybrid seed quality and production.
Seed Production and Variety Development for Organic SystemsGardening
This document summarizes the current state of breeding crop varieties specifically for organic production in the United States. While interest is growing, breeding for organics is still in its early stages. Some public universities and small companies are conducting research into developing varieties with traits suited to organic systems through participatory breeding with farmers. However, no commercially available seed varieties have been bred specifically for organic production yet. Researchers are seeking to establish new models for organic seed distribution and farmer compensation for participation in variety development.
Seed Production and Variety Development for Organic SystemsSeeds
Breeding crop plants specifically for organic production is still in its early stages. While some universities and seed companies are developing varieties suited for organic systems through public breeding programs and farmer collaboration, no commercially available seeds have been bred exclusively for organic use. There is debate around whether organic seed production should be mandated and whether the benefits of exclusively organic seeds outweigh the increased costs and limited availability that a requirement could create for farmers during the initial years. Many in the organic industry believe variety development for organics needs to go beyond just using existing varieties under organic conditions, and instead focus on breeding new varieties tailored to the specific challenges of organic agriculture.
Seed Production and Seed Sources of Organic Vegetables
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For more information, Please see websites below:
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Organic Edible Schoolyards & Gardening with Children =
http://scribd.com/doc/239851214 ~
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Double Food Production from your School Garden with Organic Tech =
http://scribd.com/doc/239851079 ~
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Free School Gardening Art Posters =
http://scribd.com/doc/239851159 ~
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Increase Food Production with Companion Planting in your School Garden =
http://scribd.com/doc/239851159 ~
`
Healthy Foods Dramatically Improves Student Academic Success =
http://scribd.com/doc/239851348 ~
`
City Chickens for your Organic School Garden =
http://scribd.com/doc/239850440 ~
`
Simple Square Foot Gardening for Schools - Teacher Guide =
http://scribd.com/doc/239851110 ~
Seed Production and Seed Sources of Organic VegetablesSeeds
This document provides guidelines for organic seed production in Florida. It discusses the increasing demand for organic vegetables and seeds due to regulations requiring organic seed sources. Commercial seed production typically occurs in western states with ideal climates, but demand is increasing production in other regions. Selection of crops suitable for the local environment is important. Organic seed production requires following guidelines for land selection, soil preparation without chemicals, planting, and managing weeds, insects and diseases organically. Harvest and post-harvest handling depends on the specific crop and whether it produces wet or dry seeds. Biological controls can help manage pests organically.
Problems and Progress for Organic Seed ProductionSeeds
This document discusses problems and progress in organic seed production. It begins by defining organic seed at different levels from certified seed produced organically to cultivars bred for organic systems. Implementation of 100% organic seed faced challenges but has made progress through systems allowing limited non-organic seed initially while increasing organic seed availability and quality over time. Data collection on organic seed use is limited but surveys indicate growing use, especially for arable crops, though full targets have yet to be met.
The document provides an overview of breeding organic vegetables, including basic seed-saving techniques. It discusses that self-pollinating crops like beans and tomatoes only need isolation distances of around 20 feet for seed production, while outcrossing crops like brassicas and cucurbits require much greater isolation of at least 1/4 mile to prevent cross-pollination between varieties. The document also notes that for seed production of outcrossing crops, growers can allow only one variety to flower if the edible portion is not the ripe fruit.
This document provides an overview of seed-saving basics for plant breeders. It discusses the importance of understanding a crop's reproductive biology, as crops can be either self-pollinating or outcrossing. For self-pollinating crops like beans and tomatoes, isolation distances of at least 20 feet between varieties is recommended when saving seed. Outcrossing crops like squash require greater isolation or control of pollinators to maintain genetic purity. The document also outlines the seed-saving cycle, which involves growing plants to flowering, controlling pollination, and harvesting, cleaning, and storing seeds. Mastering these basic techniques is essential for anyone looking to engage in plant breeding and selection.
This document discusses conventional plant breeding techniques used over thousands of years by farmers and more recently by plant breeders to develop improved crop varieties. It describes how early farmers selected desirable traits from local varieties to save and replant, while modern plant breeders use genetics knowledge to cross plants with desired traits. The result is either open-pollinated varieties that breed true, or hybrid varieties produced by crossing pure parent lines to yield high-performing first generation offspring, though hybrid seeds must be repurchased annually. Conventional breeding has significantly increased global food production but has limitations; new techniques like mutation breeding and biotechnology further expand options.
Ecosystem Analysis - Monsanto Seeds And Traitstecohen
The document summarizes Monsanto's corporate overview, strategy, products, and ecosystem services review. Monsanto is an international agricultural biotechnology firm that focuses on seeds and genomics. Their strategy includes technology agreements with farmers and acquisitions. Their products include genetically modified corn, cotton, and soybean seeds. An ecosystem services review identified genetic resources, climate change, and wild foods as top dependent services and identified applicable areas of regulation.
This document discusses organic herb production in the United States. It provides an overview of research into organic herb production, including projects funded by USDA SARE grants. It also summarizes regulations for organic certification and highlights some of the challenges for beginning organic herb producers, such as the years of experience needed to successfully grow and market herb crops.
Scientific Facts on Genetically Modified CropsGreenFacts
We are regularly confronted with genetically modified foods, be it in the news or on our plates.
In what way are GM crops different from conventional crops?
What is known about their possible risks for human health or the environment?
This document summarizes a presentation on organic seed solutions in Canada. It discusses the current plant breeding system and proposed changes to royalty collection that could generate funds for breeding programs. For organic producers, existing varieties will remain available without royalties, but developing organic varieties faces the same challenges as conventional breeding due to limited public funding. Participatory plant breeding is highlighted as an alternative that has successfully developed wheat, oat and potato lines adapted for organic conditions. International agreements support farmers' rights to save and exchange seeds and strengthen on-farm breeding that conserves diversity for farmer-developed varieties.
The document discusses the State of Organic Seed project which aims to advance organic seed systems in the United States. It does this by monitoring the status of organic seed, developing stakeholder involvement, and implementing activities to improve the quality, integrity and use of organic seed. The project seeks input from organic farmers, certifiers, seed industry, researchers and other stakeholders. It identifies challenges in the organic seed sector such as lack of breeding for organic systems, industry concentration, and GE contamination risks. The document outlines principles and farmer-centered approaches to guide actions that strengthen organic seed systems.
This chapter introduces vegetable seed production and its importance. Vegetables provide essential nutrition and are cultivated worldwide in a diverse range of systems, from subsistence to commercial. They are classified in different ways, most usefully by their botanical taxonomy, which indicates cultural requirements. The seed industry plays a key role in high-quality seed supply, though on-farm seed saving remains important in some areas. Vegetables are vital for nutrition, health, agriculture and livelihoods globally.
Potatoes: Organic Production and Marketing Gardening
This document outlines organic potato production practices including fertility and nutrient management, pest management, harvesting, storage, and marketing. Key points include:
- Organic potato producers must use certified organic seed potatoes unless not commercially available and adhere to certification guidelines excluding synthetic fertilizers and pesticides.
- Fertility is managed through animal manures, compost, and crop rotations. Rotations of 4-7 years between potato crops are recommended to reduce pests and build soil health.
- Pest management uses biointensive IPM including rotations with non-host crops, organic matter additions, and biorational controls for insects, diseases, weeds, and nematodes.
- Harvesting, curing
The document discusses key constraints facing seed sector development in agriculture, including scarcity of early generation seed supply, low capacity of seed companies and research institutions, lack of financing for the seed value chain, and lack of farmer awareness. It provides recommendations to governments and donors to address economic constraints through various approaches depending on the level of public versus private sector involvement, such as removing market distortions, mitigating demand risk, driving public sector efficiency, and subsidizing production costs. Examples of seed scaling projects in different countries demonstrate strategies to promote adoption of improved seeds through activities like marketing campaigns, quality seed production training, and community-based seed production models.
Partnerships and the Future of Agriculture TechnologyCIMMYT
Presentation delivered by Dr. Robert T. Fraley (Executive Vice President and Chief Technology Officer, Monsanto, USA) at Borlaug Summit on Wheat for Food Security. March 25 - 28, 2014, Ciudad Obregon, Mexico.
http://www.borlaug100.org
This document provides an overview of organic sweet corn production. It discusses key aspects such as varieties, soil fertility, crop rotations, weed control, insect pest management, diseases, harvesting, postharvest handling, marketing and economics. The summary focuses on organic farming practices for sweet corn including relying on crop rotations, cover crops, compost and organic fertilizers for soil fertility and pest management. It also discusses National Organic Program certification requirements and challenges with weed and insect control in organic systems.
This document provides an overview of organic sweet corn production, including key aspects such as varieties, soil fertility, crop rotations, weed control, insect pest management, diseases, harvesting, postharvest handling, marketing and economics. It discusses organic farming practices like using crop rotations, cover crops, compost and organic fertilizers to build soil fertility and manage pests without synthetic pesticides. The document also provides resources for further information on organic sweet corn production.
Banking for the Future: Savings, Security and SeedsSeeds
This document summarizes experiences with community seed banks in 9 countries. It discusses how community seed banks can help promote Farmers' Rights by conserving traditional varieties and knowledge, ensuring seed security, and facilitating seed exchange. Community seed banks are established and run by local communities to store and provide access to genetically diverse seeds adapted to local conditions. They complement formal seed conservation and help maintain crop diversity, though currently reach only a small number of farmers.
Similar to Seed Production and Variety Development (20)
Marthe Cohn was a Jewish French spy who risked her life to gather intelligence for the French resistance during WWII. She infiltrated Nazi Germany using her fluent German and managed to discover key military information. As a result, the French army was able to achieve an important victory. Cohn went on to have a long career as a nurse and nurse anesthetist. She has received numerous honors for her wartime heroism and courageously fights to keep the memory of the Holocaust alive.
This document provides links to resources about organic gardening techniques, urban farming, rainwater harvesting, green roofs, straight vegetable oil vehicles, garden therapy, volunteering on organic farms in Europe, solar energy training, and eco-friendly coffee beans. It discusses how organic gardening technologies can increase plant yields by 400% and provides catalogs and manuals about topics such as city farming, backyard farming, rain gardens, and aquaponics systems. The links provide free information for organic and sustainable living practices.
Ruth Jones, a Christian teacher without a master's degree or administrative experience, was unexpectedly named principal of a struggling inner city elementary school in Grand Rapids, Michigan that was on the verge of closure due to poor academic performance. Through prayer, addressing students' practical needs, and recruiting volunteers, Jones led a dramatic turnaround of the school over 20 years. Test scores and graduation rates increased sharply, and the school now has a waiting list despite originally facing closure. Jones attributes the school's success to aligning herself with God.
- Coconut oil may help slow or prevent Alzheimer's disease in some people by providing an alternative fuel for brain cells in the form of ketones. Dr. Mary Newport put her husband Steve, who had Alzheimer's, on a diet supplemented with coconut oil, which led to improvements in his symptoms and cognitive abilities.
- Researchers have developed a ketone ester that is more potent than coconut oil, but it is very expensive to produce. Coconut oil remains a viable alternative source of ketones. Taking coconut oil may also help with other neurological diseases due to its ability to increase ketone levels and good cholesterol while reducing bad bacteria.
A teacher in Baltimore transformed the lives of students from the slums. In the 1920s, college students evaluated 200 boys from the slums and said they had no chance of success. Twenty-five years later, it was found that 176 of the 180 boys who could be located had achieved success as lawyers, doctors, and businessmen. The professor interviewed each man and they all credited their success to a teacher who had loved and believed in them. When interviewed, the elderly teacher said her simple method was that she loved those boys.
Robert Raikes witnessed the poor conditions of children in Gloucester, England in the late 18th century due to the Industrial Revolution. This inspired him to create the first Sunday school to educate and reform street children. The Sunday school used the Bible as its textbook and proved hugely successful in improving behavior and civic responsibility. Raikes' idea then spread across Britain and to other parts of Europe and America, revolutionizing religious education of children and community outreach efforts of churches. Late in life, Raikes had a profound spiritual experience witnessing a young girl reading the Bible that gave him a new understanding of faith.
The document discusses using Groasis Waterboxx devices to help plant and grow trees in dry environments like the Sahara Desert. It describes how the author and a colleague tried using 10 Waterboxx devices to plant trees in M'hamid, Morocco but their luggage containing the devices was initially lost. They were eventually found and the devices were used to plant tamarisk trees to compare growth with traditional planting methods. The document provides details on how the Waterboxx works, collecting condensation and directing water to tree roots, and hopes the experiment will help increase tree survival rates in the dry climate.
The Groasis Waterboxx is a low-tech device that helps seeds and saplings grow into strong trees in dry environments. It collects and stores rainwater and condensation to slowly water the roots daily. In tests, 88% of trees grown with the Waterboxx survived compared to only 10.5% without it. The inventor believes using this technology could reforest billions of acres and offset humanity's carbon emissions by capturing CO2 in new tree growth.
The document discusses the Groasis Technology, a planting method that uses a Waterboxx and other techniques to plant trees in dry areas with 90% less water. It summarizes that the technology (1) improves soil, maps planting areas, harvests rainfall, and uses the right planting techniques to help trees grow deep roots in the first year to survive independently. It also describes how the technology terraces slopes to harvest and direct rainfall to trees, uses 3D imaging to map ideal planting lines, and a capillary drill to quickly plant thousands of trees per day.
The document describes the Agua, Vida y Naturaleza Project (AVNP) that started in Ecuador in 2012. It is funded by the Dutch COmON Foundation to help small farmers in dry areas by introducing the Groasis Technology, which allows planting in deserts and eroded lands. The technology mimics nature by improving soil, maintaining capillary structures, and using a waterboxx device. The project aims to address issues small farmers face like lack of water, capital, and farming knowledge, in order to help alleviate world hunger and prevent farmers from migrating to cities due to lack of income from farming dry areas.
The document provides planting instructions for using a Waterboxx planting device. It outlines 6 main steps:
1. Preparing the soil by digging holes and adding compost/fertilizer or just watering.
2. Assembling the Waterboxx by placing the wick, mid-plate, lid, and siphons.
3. Preparing plants by pruning roots to encourage deep growth.
4. Planting in holes aligned east-west within the Waterboxx hole.
5. Placing the assembled Waterboxx over the planted area.
6. Watering the plants and filling the Waterboxx for the first time.
This document provides instructions for growing vegetables using the Groasis Waterboxx system. It details recommendations for greenhouse design, soil preparation, planting methods, plant spacing, watering schedules, and pest and disease management. Proper installation and maintenance of the Waterboxx system is emphasized to ensure healthy plant growth and high crop yields. Close monitoring of climate conditions and plant needs is also advised.
The document is a report on the Groasis waterboxx, a device that aims to allow farming without irrigation. It provides an overview of the waterboxx's history and development, describes its components and how it works, reviews testing that has been done, and evaluates its suitability for organic farming. In the conclusion, the report recommends that the cooperative discussed in the document not use the waterboxx yet, as more data is still needed, but could consider conducting their own tests with support from their technical services.
The document summarizes an invention called the Groasis that helps plants survive in arid climates by collecting and storing rainfall to provide steady watering to seedlings. It notes that most rainfall in deserts occurs within one week but is then unavailable, and that the Groasis uses evaporation-proof containers and wicking to deliver water to young plants over longer periods, allowing their roots to develop and access deeper groundwater reserves. Large-scale projects have used the Groasis in countries like Kenya to aid reforestation efforts and combat desertification.
The document summarizes the work of the Sahara Roots Foundation in Morocco and their use of the Groasis Waterboxx to help plant trees and reduce desertification. The Sahara Roots Foundation was established to implement development projects to conserve the Moroccan Sahara through activities like tree planting, irrigation, education, and desert cleaning. They have started using the Groasis Waterboxx, an "intelligent water battery" developed by AquaPro, to improve the survival rate of newly planted trees. The Waterboxx produces and captures water through condensation and rain, allowing trees to be planted in dry areas like rocks and deserts with a 100% success rate.
The document describes the Agua, Vida y Naturaleza Project (AVNP) that started in Ecuador in 2012. It is funded by the Dutch COmON Foundation to help small farmers in dry areas by introducing the Groasis Technology, which allows planting in deserts and eroded lands. The technology mimics nature by improving soil, maintaining capillary structures, and using a waterboxx device. The project aims to address issues small farmers face like lack of water, capital, and farming knowledge, in order to help alleviate world hunger and prevent farmers from migrating to cities.
Groasis Technology is compared to drip irrigation over a 50-year project for a 500-hectare tree plantation. Key financial indicators show that using Groasis Waterboxes results in a higher net present value (NPV) of €26.62 million compared to €21.15 million for drip irrigation, and a slightly higher internal rate of return (IRR) of 22.1% versus 23.4% for drip irrigation. Waterboxx also has a longer payback period of 7 years compared to 5 years for drip irrigation. The document provides assumptions and calculations for costs and revenues for both systems over the 50-year period.
A new technology called the Groasis Waterboxx shows promise for reclaiming desert landscapes and increasing plant survival rates. The simple device regulates temperature and moisture levels around young plants, allowing trees and crops to grow with little watering even in dry conditions. Initial trials in Africa found tree survival rates increased to 88% with the Waterboxx compared to only 10% without it. Researchers in Kenya are optimistic this technology could significantly reduce desertification and help transform the country's deserts into productive, economic areas through increased vegetation.
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ISO/IEC 27001, ISO/IEC 42001, and GDPR: Best Practices for Implementation and...PECB
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Date: May 29, 2024
Tags: Information Security, ISO/IEC 27001, ISO/IEC 42001, Artificial Intelligence, GDPR
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By Dr. Vinod Kumar Kanvaria
A review of the growth of the Israel Genealogy Research Association Database Collection for the last 12 months. Our collection is now passed the 3 million mark and still growing. See which archives have contributed the most. See the different types of records we have, and which years have had records added. You can also see what we have for the future.
Assessment and Planning in Educational technology.pptxKavitha Krishnan
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3. linated or vectored from another plant of the
same type) rather than hybrid (produced artificially by controlled cross-breeding).
country, to explain the objectives and techniques of “participatory breeding” and seed
saving. By 2004 this approach was bearing
fruit in the Pacific Northwest, led by Wild
Commercial-scale organic production requires
Garden Seeds, Philomath, Oregon—one of
seed stocks (both open-pollinated and hybrid)
the more advanced among the small group of
with proven reliability—especially natural
breeders focused on re-introducing disease
resistance to insects and diseases, as well
resistance into popular strains of lettuce and
as natural vigor to germinate promptly and
kale for organic production.(7) On 11 acres
out compete weeds. Good flavor and quality
of certified organic trial ground, Washingtypically are considered more important than
ton State University wheat breeder Stephen
shippability. Additional attributes making for
Jones has developed wheat varieties suited
successful organic propagation are beginning
to organic production in the Pacific Northto be identified.(1)
west by drawing samples of pre-1950 wheats
Recently, organizations such as the Organic from seedbanks and crossing them to modSeed Alliance (OSA) and the Public Seed ern lines, to take advantage of improvements
Initiative (Cornell) have outlined a new pub- but retain traits important in the era precedlic participatory model for breeding organic ing chemical agriculture. Five varieties are
seeds. The model aims to strike a middle already consistently producing higher yields
course between the inexperience of seed-sav- for Washington state organic wheat farmers,
ing farmers and any special-interest bias in but release of the new varieties is still sevformal research. Prior to training, farmers eral years off.(7, 8) The University of Minoften lack the skills to select traits impor- nesota has identified hard red spring wheat
tant for enhancing organic production. They cultivars for organic production.(9) Other
may also lack resources to carry on multi- innovators include Lindsey du Toit, Washingyear development of seed lines. Leaving ton State University horticulturist, and John
the research agenda in the hands of institu- Navazio of OSA.
tions simply accelerates the movement toward Seeds of Change is leading the way in develgenomics and patentable outcomes.
oping summer squash for organic production,
In 1999 the Northern Plains Sustainable
Agriculture Society (NPSAS) undertook
a three-state farmer-driven, participatory
breeding program for organic varieties that
is still ongoing. See www.npsas.org/BreedingClub.htm for information on NPSAS’s Farmer
Breeding Project and organic variety trials,
funded by USDA’s Sustainable Agriculture
Research and Education (SARE) program
and the Organic Farming Research Foundation (OFRF). Another ongoing project is
Oregon Tilth’s ambitious Farmer Cooperative
Genome Project.
especially zucchinis, emphasizing large canopies to shade out weeds, resistance to weather
swings, adequate yields, and flavor. A preliminary evaluation of heirloom varieties at
Cornell under organic conditions has identified a forgotten cantaloupe with superior flavor. ‘Hannah’s Choice’ thrives under organic
conditions, when grown for local markets and
not for long-distance shipping.(7)
Farmer compensation
Exactly how farmers participating in breeding the new organic varieties will be compensated for their time is not clear, except that
Other universities and organic seed compathe farmers will ensure organic versions of
nies are beginning to work with genetically
their favorite regional varieties for their own
diverse, open-pollinated plant populations, as
use. Neither has anyone offered a clear diswell as hybrids, to breed varieties with multribution model for the new varieties. One
tiple traits conferring “horizontal resistance,”
possibility is the collaborative model (like the
ideally suited to organic production.
California Sweet Potato Growers Group that
Workshops, many funded by USDA/SARE distributes the virus-free planting material
grants, are reaching farmers around the produced by University of California research
www.attra.ncat.org
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Page 3
4. How Farmers Can Participate in Horizontal Selection and Breeding
Professional plant breeders have never focused on breeding for horizontal resistance, at least for the past 65 years.
During the 1960s, many plant breeders also began to doubt the profitability of breeding for vertical resistance (narrow
selection for one or very few specific traits). The commercial life of most vertically resistant cultivars was too short to
justify the amount of necessary work. The short market life of new introductions, combined with the development of
improved crop protection chemicals and the financial involvement of chemical industries in breeding, led to abandonment of resistance breeding altogether, in favor of crop protection by chemicals. At present, the world spends about
nine billion dollars annually on pesticides. Despite this, pre-harvest crop losses due to pests and diseases are estimated
at 24 percent. In food crops alone, these losses are enough to feed about one billion people.
The only effective means of overcoming corporate and scientific opposition to horizontal resistance (broad selection
for an array of resistance traits) is to make plant breeding as public and as widespread as possible. Fortunately, breeding crops for horizontal resistance can be undertaken in the public interest, according to R.A. Robinson, author of the
seminal work Return to Resistance: Breeding Crops To Reduce Pesticide Dependency.(6) Robinson envisioned breeding
groups composed of farmers, hobby gardeners, green activists, environmentalists, or university students, working with
a reasonably wide genetic base of susceptible plants. It is not necessary to find a good source of resistance, as when
breeding for vertical resistance. Transgressive segregation within a population of susceptible plants will usually accumulate all the horizontal resistance needed. Should this not occur, merely widening the original genetic base will probably
remedy the situation. Transgressive segregation, a common term in plant breeding, is “the segregation of individuals in
the F2 or a later generation of a cross that shows a more extreme development of a character than either parent gene.”
(See www.desicca.de/plant_breeding/Dictionary_T/dictionary-t.htm.) In other words, after the initial cross, in successive
generations desirable traits and combinations of traits tend to become more pronounced in certain individual plants.
A second step is the use of recurrent mass selection as a breeding method. Robinson originally recommended about ten
to twenty original parents. Dr. Jeff McCormick, of Garden Medicinals and Culinaries, recommends fifty to one hundred,
usually high-quality modern cultivars, but also some older landraces, for exposure to cross-pollination in all combinations.
The progeny should total some thousands of individuals that are screened for resistance by being cultivated without
any crop protection chemicals. The majority of this early screening population dies, and the insect and disease pests
do most of the work of screening. The survivors become the parents of the next generation. This process is repeated
until the research group determines that enough horizontal resistance has accumulated. Usually, 10 to 15 generations
of recurrent mass selection will produce high levels of horizontal resistance to all locally important pests. The process
could take ten to fifteen years in temperate climates, but less where more than one cycle per year could be realized.
McCormick has recently streamlined the process suggested by Robinson in 1996 to about five generations.
Recurrent mass selection must be performed “on-site”—that is, in the area of future cultivation, at the time of year of
future cultivation, and according to the future farming system (i.e., organic production). This will produce new cultivars
that are in balance with the local agro-ecosystem.
only to its members). Plant breeding clubs
share seeds among their own members, and
the membership model has emerged as the
preferred method for organic farmers to
obtain transplants. The Organic Seed Alliance calls for “developing new relationships
and exploring novel avenues of collaboration
to bring quality seed to the organic movement.”(10) In the U.S., plant breeding clubs
generally include a group of farmers assisted
by a university researcher or other technical
assistance provider.
with Cornell University in Cornell’s Public
Seed Initiative, under a 2004 USDA organic
farm research grant, for expansion of onfarm vegetable breeding, on-farm trials,
and farmer education to develop and deliver
improved vegetable varieties for organic systems. According to a NOFA-NY newsletter,
[A]ppropriate procedures to manage the
transfer of these materials [vegetable
germplasm] between breeders and to our
trialing network are in place that preserve the originators’ rights, if desired.(11)
The Northeast Organic Farming Association
of New York (NOFA-NY) continues to work
Page 4
ATTRA
Seed Production and Variety Development for Organic Systems
5. tect small growers or farmers who wished to
save (and sometimes sell) seed from their own
Heretofore, the increasingly consolidated crops.(13) So far, this has affected mainly
seed industry has served as the main engine U.S. commodity grain crops. At the end of
of commercialization and distribution of new 2004, owners of patents on genetically engiintroductions by producing certified (for grain neered varieties had filed 90 lawsuits, involvcrops) and registered (for vegetable variet- ing 147 farmers and 39 small businesses,
ies) seed. The industry has sought greater alleging seed patent violations.(14)
returns for its crucial service by acquiring
intellectual property rights to seeds of unique Issues in organic seed
varieties, limiting the number of varieties sourcing for commercial
sold, and most significantly, finding advantageous legal or legislative avenues. A main growers
attraction of biotechnology for seed compa- In setting as a key goal for the future of public
nies is enhanced worldwide market share, breeding, “development of ‘a road map for
not improved yields (as the case of Bt corn invigorating public domain plant and animal
has shown). Accordingly, Gunnar Rundgren, breeding to meet the needs of a more suspresident of the International Federation of tainable agriculture,’” the 2003 Seed SumOrganic Agriculture Movements (IFOAM) mit committed itself to the totally new area of
—concurring with the assessment of World- breeding for organic production. In doing so,
it shifted ground beyond increasing the supWatch Institute— asserts that
ply of currently available varieties of organic
in the case of GMOs (genetically modified
seed to developing new varieties designed
organisms) there are no benefits for either
specifically for organic production.
consumers or producers—only for the
Issues with the conventional seed
industry
companies producing and selling them. If
farmers feel they need herbicide-resistant
varieties, that is because they are locked
into a production system that depends on
chemical inputs… [a system] that leads to
further degradation of the environment,
increased dependency of farmers and
more risks for everybody.(12)
Acquisition of exclusive ownership of seed
varieties is limited under the 1970 Plant
Variety Protection Act, which safeguards
the rights of farmers and gardeners to use
their own saved seed, and the rights of plant
breeders to use PVP varieties for breeding
new varieties, while affording seed developers a means to recoup their investment. Lobbying groups demanded protection for small
farmers in the PVPA legislation. Seedsaving farmers and gardeners had become concerned by the European ban on many traditional open-pollinated varieties as part of a
program of varietal “standardization.”
However, under an obscure 2001 U.S.
Supreme Court decision (Pioneer Hi-Bred
International vs. J.E.M. Ag Supply), companies for the first time could freely patent
plant varieties under the 1795 U.S. Utility
Patent law, without any reservations to prowww.attra.ncat.org
S
ee the new
IFOAM publication,
Genetic Engineering
vs. Organic Farming,
at www.ifoam.org.
Two major regulatory
issues that directly affect
U.S. organic farmers
Should U.S. organic producers be
required to use organic seed?
Seed companies complain bitterly that for
the past two years organic farmers have used
the availability exemption in the USDA/NOP
standards to avoid buying organic seed.
Organic seed may be more expensive, and
farmers may have to go outside their usual
seed sources to find it. Farmers also say
that organic seed is simply not available for
their preferred varieties. Because the rule
that encourages the planting of organic seed
is relatively new, many types of organic seed
have been in short supply. This situation is
improving, as organic production for the seed
market grows. Organic certifying agents differ in their interpretations of this regulation,
which simply states that the producer must
use organically grown seeds except “when
an equivalent organically produced variety
is not commercially available.” Some certifiers require only that a farmer document
ATTRA
Page 5
6. three instances in which seed companies that
are likely sources for organic seed cannot
provide a specific variety. Where a farmer
has found organic seed of the desired variety, but it is of poor quality, some certifiers
have not required the farmer to use the lowquality seed (i.e., seed with poor germination, low purity, low test weight, etc.). In
this instance, the certifier is interpreting the
word “equivalent” in the rule to include seed
quality characteristics. The quality problem occurs mainly when an organic farmer
attempts to use “bin-run,” on-farm produced
seed that is not certified.
be required to supply monthly reports
on exemptions granted for non-organic
seed. NOP indicated that they are willing
to sponsor a database, but are expecting
ASTA to provide the data. NOSB members [present] questioned the scope of this
project.(16)
The problem of varietal “equivalence” has
emerged mainly in vegetable production.
Seed companies acknowledge that many,
practically identical vegetable varieties are
sold under different names by different suppliers—in part to get around trademark
or copyright issues. Growers have apparently been claiming to their certifiers that
However, in 2005 NOFA-NY began caution- an organic variety under a different name
ing its certified organic farmers (mainly veg- is not equivalent to their preferred variety.
etable growers) to use organic seed. In the (Seed companies have favored interpretation
fall of 2004 NOFA staff compiled an updated of the regulation as “kind,” rather than “variorganic seed list that included organic variet- ety” equivalence. For more on this question,
ies available in 2005 and comparable con- see the statement by Rob Johnson, at www.
ventional varieties.(11) For certified organic johnnyseeds.com.) Other farmers argue that
farmers in the U.S. as a whole, the access high prices alone exempt them from using
problem seems to have been solved for now organic seed.
by the certified organic sourcing service the
Carolina Farm Stewardship Association’s Some farm support organizations counter
Save Our Seed Project has begun providing that farmers should be willing to pay higher
prices to support the efforts of seed compato growers.(15)
nies to produce organic versions of the major
crops. An article in The Land asserts that
there is no shortage of any type of organic
Any grower who wants to plant certified organic seeds may subseed for 2005 for Minnesota farmers, and
mit a list of the cultivars/ varieties sought, along with the quantity
they should voluntarily use organic seed.(17)
needed. CFSA’s Save Our Seed Project will then send to the grower
Some farm support groups (and the Ameria list of all of the certified organic sources for every cultivar. If no
can Seed Trade Association’s Organic Divisources exist, the project will send the grower full documentation
sion) have proposed an integrated national
of this circumstance, for the grower’s certification agent.
database of organic seed availability to foreOrganic cultivars are currently available for seeds, tubers, and rootstall the “three-call” rule-of-thumb. The
stocks. Not available for 2005 are mixtures (for example, mesclun),
hard question of determining “equivalence”
trees, and seedlings. Growers can submit lists by FAX (706-788remains, but it should subside with increased
0071), mail (Carolina Farm Stewardship Ass’n, 49 Circle D Dr., Colbert,
availability of varieties especially bred for
GA 30628), or e-mail (sourcing@savingourseed.org).(15)
organic production.
Should testing be required to
The American Seed Trade Association
insure that seed producers do not
(ASTA) has recently met with NOP to request
use or distribute seed that may
that NOP manage an organic seed database.
contain unintended genetically
According to the Organic Observer:
ASTA would like to see an interactive
database established to provide real-time
access to seed suppliers and the public
regarding availability of organic seed varieties. ASTA also requested that certifiers
Page 6
ATTRA
modified material?
Requiring testing for GM material is another
contentious issue. Some organic grain producers have had export lots rejected by foreign buyers because the lots were contam-
Seed Production and Variety Development for Organic Systems
7. inated with GMOs. The sheer number of
GMOs that have migrated into U.S. food crops
leaves the organic industry in a quandary.
It’s an immediate problem for crops such as
canola, soy, and corn, where GMO varieties predominate, and it threatens potential
migration of stray GMO material to related
weeds and nearby food crops. Two schools
of thought have proposed two different solutions.
A big problem for on-farm seed producers
is that certain crops with GMO analogues
already exhibit pervasive, low-level GMO contamination. According to a 2004 study conducted by the Union of Concerned Scientists
(UCS) on conventionally produced U.S. soybeans, canola, and corn, representing a wide
array of popular varieties with no history of
genetic engineering, “more than two-thirds
of 36 conventional corn, soy, and canola seed
batches contained traces of DNA from genetiThe American Seed Testing Association cally engineered crop varieties.” The report
favors a system of testing organic seed to cer- concluded, “The US may soon find it impostify it as GMO-free before it can be planted sible to guarantee that any portion of its food
or sold. On the other hand, the American supply is free of gene-altered elements, a situSeed Trade Association guidelines include ation that could seriously disrupt the export
this statement:
of US foods, seeds, and oils. Many believe it
ASTA strongly supports that organic cercould also gravely harm the domestic market
tification under the NOP is a process, not
for organic foods.” The lab tests were comproduct certification. . . . ASTA strongly
missioned by UCS and conducted on certimaintains that any movement toward
fied seed.(21) Many scientists, universities,
organic seed testing or product certificafarmers, and other have questioned plans
tion is not only counter to USDA and NOP
for GMO wheat. Canola is a major oilseed;
policy, but also the U.S. seed industry
and organic producers at large. It is well
domestic corn and soybeans are major ingrerecognized in numerous food and agridients in many products—including starches,
cultural production standards, including
emulsifiers, and animal feeds.
organic standards, that zero is not possible. Furthermore, any movement by seed
producers to respond to such unrealistic
market demands will not only undermine
the viability of the U.S. government’s
organic policy but could erode the U.S.
seed industry’s future participation in the
organic market.(18)
New procedures are increasingly able to identify GMOs, even in large quantities of seed,
with a high degree of accuracy. Some U.S.
export grains are tested, and many suppliers of organic grain seed verify that their
stocks are free only to a certain tolerance level
(usually .05 or .01). Tolerances have yet
to be set by NOP. Monsanto recently conducted a lab analysis seminar at its St. Louis
facility to demonstrate the latest methods of
detection. European scientists have detected
GMOs in 100% of samples tested.(19) Iowa
State University has developed a new software program, using weather data and other
geographical parameters, that can predict
genetic purity at harvest for hybrid corn in
the field, to aid farmers in marketing decisions.(20)
www.attra.ncat.org
Some sources have suggested that bacteria
can spread GMO material from a genetically
engineered crop to a nearby unrelated crop
or weed. In fact, this mimics the process
used in genetic engineering.(22)
These developments raise serious questions
about geographically indiscriminate on-farm
production of organic seedstocks for grains
and oilseeds. Moreover, many varieties of GE
crops—including “pharmacrops”— are being
grown as trial crops in undisclosed locations
in the U.S.(23) As a result, some western
organic growers increasingly discriminate
among seed suppliers.(24)
Industry positions on testing for
GMOs
Organic spokespeople like Jim Riddle,
recently elected to chair the National Organic
Standards Board, point out that required testing for GMOs would deeply alter the concept
of organics from a process-based system to a
testing system. (This is also the position of
ASTA.) However, there is a marketing issue.
ATTRA
Page 7
8. The public now believes organic is 100%
GMO-free. Will the public accept a chance
of pharma-crop “pig vaccines” in its organic
corn flakes? Or will it demand testing?
come of the internationally publicized court
case in which he was involved with Monsanto
underscores the advisability of commercial
farmers going back every few years to a reliA system of tolerances for GMO contamina- able source of organic seed of their preferred
tion may eventually need to be established variety. This practice guards against disfor certified organic crops—especially wind- ease buildup, inadvertent contamination of
pollinated crops like some grains and oil- the stock, and reversion of the crop to undeseeds.(25) Governmental agreements, espe- sirable traits. This reliable source can be
cially on harmonization of organic standards, certified seed from a conservator university
would open the door for U.S. organic farmers or commercial seed company. Jeff McCorto participate in foreign trade. Other sugges- mick, a pioneer new-breed seed company
tions include setting aside areas of the world owner, has suggested that vegetable farmers
still remote enough to produce foundation growing a contract seed crop may find it to
stock of wind-pollinated crops or establish- their advantage to go back to the company
ing a U.S. government public seed bank of every year for “select” (certified) seed for
the vegetables they are raising for market,
pure stock (before it is too late).
as well.(5)
Quality issues in farmersaved and -traded seed
vs. purchased
commercial seed
The global picture
While European Union (EU) and global standards are beyond the scope of this publication, there was extensive discussion of the
The highest quality grain seed sold to farm- need for global harmonization of organic
ers is “certified,” with minimum standards standards at the 2004 World Seed Conferfor purity, germination, test weight, true- ence in Rome. (See Proceedings at www.
ness to type, and absence of physical dam- ifoam.org.) Differing standards, of course,
age. Ideally, seed for planting organic grain affect trade policy, and intense negotiations
crops would be both “certified” and “certi- between the U.S. and the European Union
fied organic.” Shortages of certified organic continue. As of 2005, some GMO plantings
grain seed have sometimes led farmers to in Europe, as well as exports of U.S. Bt corn
use “bin-run” seed from a nearby organic to Europe, had been approved.
farm or from a previous year’s harvest that
Another major issue at the World Seed Con(while it is “certified organic”) may contain
ference was intellectual property rights, or the
light or broken seed, weed seed and other
implications of governmentally approved lists
foreign matter, or pathogens. Such seed is
of permitted varieties. This is a special conalso likely to germinate poorly. This is not
invariably the case, of course. According to cern for traditional farmers in many counmany certifiers’ interpretations of NOP reg- tries, who are used to saving seed from year
ulations, farmers can by-pass available low- to year and have over the centuries develquality organic seed in favor of untreated oped unique landraces. A recent example
is in Iraq, where a new report by GRAIN
conventional seed of higher quality.
and Focus on the Global South cites a U.S.
edict in occupied Iraq that “prevents farmers
Value in going back to certified
from saving their seeds and effectively hands
seed every few years if you save
over the seed market to transnational corpoyour own
rations.” (See www.grain.org/nfg/?id+253.)
Although Canadian farmer Percy Schmeiser
This was also reported in In Good Tilth, Febasserts that he selected and saved seed most
ruary 2005.(26)
of his 35 years of growing canola crops—
thereby developing a landrace adapted to Sas- Traditional practices of indigenous farmers
katchewan conditions—the unfavorable out- are mostly compatible with organic producPage 8
ATTRA
Seed Production and Variety Development for Organic Systems
9. tion: planting a mix of adapted types (landraces) to ensure some survivors, despite vagaries of weather and insect/disease attacks; use
of older varieties geared to minimizing capital
investment; hand-harvesting and other laborintensive practices precluded by modern, uniform, machine-harvestable varieties; and use
of labor-intensive crop protection strategies
like hand weeding and watering, rather than
purchased off-farm inputs. For information
on breeding in Europe compared to the U.S,
see SeedWorld, November 2004.(27)
Association—especially in regard to trialing and proprietary rights—see the handy
table in the November 2004 issue of SeedWorld.(27)
Geography of organic seed production has
ramifications mainly in the context of GMOs.
Spain and Italy raise seed for the rest of
Europe. Traditionally U.S. garden seed has
been produced in Idaho and other arid West
Coast and Intermountain regions. Relative
severity of pest and disease pressures is a
But can hand labor feed burgeoning urban major consideration in producing quality
populations, or is it a relic of a younger, less seed. However, labor costs for seed producdensely populated Earth, where 98% of peo- tion became an issue in the 1980s, leadple grew their own food? In the best of all ing to seed production for commercial growpossible worlds, a blend of traits uniquely ers as far away as Taiwan and Argentina—a
adapted to organic production (not only development worrisome on several counts,
resistance to local pests and diseases, but not the least of which is the newly announced
improved vigor and flavor) will result from Chinese plan to invest billions of dollars in
horizontal breeding. This implies a far more Argentina and Brazil in return for access to
decentralized food production system than land and natural resources, an agreement
we have at present.
finalized at the recently concluded (DecemFor a more detailed comparison of the dif- ber 11, 2004) Summit in Chile. Argentina
ferent positions taken by the European Seed has been identified as an emerging leader in
Association and the American Seed Trade GMO crop production.(22)
Section from the National Organic Standards.
What the New Rule Says
a) The producer must use organically grown seeds, annual seedlings, and planting stock, Except, That,
1) Nonorganically produced, untreated seeds and planting stock may be used to produce an organic crop
when an equivalent organically produced variety is not commercially available. Except, That, organically produced seed must be used for the production of edible sprouts;
2) Nonorganically produced seeds and planting stock that have been treated with a substance included on the
National List of synthetic substances allowed for use in organic crop production may be used to produce an
organic crop when an equivalent organically produced or untreated variety is not commercially available.
3) Nonorganically produced annual seedlings may be used to produce an organic crop when a temporary variance has been granted in accordance with §205.290(a)(2);
4) Nonorganically produced planting stock to be used to produce a perennial crop may be sold, labeled, or
represented as organically produced only after the planting stock has been maintained under a system of
organic management for a period of no less than 1 year; and
5) Seeds, annual seedlings, and planting stock treated with prohibited substances may be used to produce an
organic crop when the application of the materials is a requirement of Federal or State phytosanitary regulations.
—National Organic Rule §205.204, Seeds and planting stock practice standard
www.ams.usda.gov/nop/
www.attra.ncat.org
ATTRA
Page 9
11. GMO presence. The farmer-led move toward developing specific varieties for organics through participatory
breeding, while in its infancy, is well underway.
References
(1)
(2)
Colley, Michaela, and Matthew Dillon. 2004.
The next great challenge: Breeding seed
for organic systems. Organic Farming
Research Foundation Information Bulletin.
Winter. p. 1, 4, 5, 29.
Dillon, Matthew. 2003. E-mail attachment.
Summit on Seeds and Breeds for 21st Century Agriculture, Washington, DC, September 6–8, 2003. 3 p.
(3)
Kelemu, Segenet, et al. 2003. Harmonizing the
agricultural biotechnology debate for
the benefit of African farmers. African
Journal of Biotechnology. October. 50 p.
www.academicjournals.org/AJB/
manuscripts/manuscripts2003/
(4)
Staff. 2003. MFAI participates in summit on
seed breeding in the public interest. MFAI
newsletter. September. p. 1.
www.michaelfieldsaginst.org
(5)
(6)
(7)
(8)
(9)
McCormick, Jeff. 2005. “Saving Our Seed”
Conference, Twin Oaks, Louisa, VA, February 24, 2005.
Dr. McCormick is founder and previous owner
of Southern Exposure Seed Exchange, and
current owner of Garden Medicinals and Culinaries. He has also served on the Board of
Directors of the Seed Savers Exchange.
Robinson, R.A. 1996. Return to Resistance:
Breeding Crops To Reduce Pesticide Dependency. AgAccess, Davis, California, and
IDRC Books, Ottawa, Canada.
Rich, Deborah K. 2004. Seed crossings bring
back old traits for organic farmers. The
Chronicle. August 28. 3 p.
www.SFGate.com
Jones, Stephen. 2004. Breeding resistance to
special interests. OFRF Information Bulletin. Fall. p. 4–7.
Kandel, Hans, and Paul Porter. 2004. Small
grain cultivar selection for organic systems.
The CornerPost. Fall. p. 11.
Includes table of varieties. For more
www.attra.ncat.org
information, contact Hans Kandel at
kande001@umn.edu
(10) Staff. 2004. Of note. Organic Trade Association News Flash. February 4. p. 2.
(11) NOFA certification staff. 2004. NOFA-NY Certified Organic, LLC. Organic Farms, Folks
& Foods. Mid-Fall. p. 5.
(12) Rundgren, Gunnar. 2003. EU organic seed
regulation adapts to reality. The Organic
Standard. July. p. 16.
(13) Guebert, Alan. 2001. Supreme Court blesses
plant patents; bye-bye bin-run seed. The
Land (MN). December 21. p. 3.
(14) Center for Food Safety. 2005. Monsanto vs.
U.S. Farmers.
www.centerforfoodsafety.org/
press_release1.13.05.cfm
Also: Staff. 2005. Corporate farming
notes: Monsanto vs. U.S Farmers report
released. Center for Rural Affairs.
February. p. 3.
(15) Organic Trade Association Staff. 2005. News
& Trends: Sourcing Organic Seed. The
Organic Report. p. 7.
Also: Rakita, Cricket. 2005. Seed sourcing. Carolina Farm Stewardship News.
March–April. p. 4.
www.savingourseed.org
(16) Staff. 2004. Database development. The
Organic Observer. December. p. 3.
(17) King, Tim. 2004. Growing organic seed fits
farm’s rotation. The Land. December 17.
p. 9A–11A.
(18) Condon, Mark. 2003. The View of the American Seed Trade Association on Organic
Agriculture. p. 2.
www.amseed.com/newsDetail.asp?id+74
(19) Staff. 2004. Genetic ID Augsburg receives perfect scores in ISTA proficiency test. The
Non-GMO Source. August. p. 15.
(20) Brook, Rhonda J. 2002. Pollen tracker. Farm
Industry News. mid-February. p. 30–32.
(21) Mellon, Margaret, and Jane Rissler. 2004.
Gone to Seed: Transgenic Contaminants in
the Traditional Seed Supply. Union of ConATTRA
Page 11
12. cerned Scientists. Washington, DC.
p. 33, 36–47.
Also:, Phillabaum, Larry. 2005. Change
blows in on the wind: Pollen from transgenic grass runs amok in Oregon. In Good
Tilth. February 15. p. 12.
Transgenic effects were found outside the
genus of the test grass and 13 miles distant.
(22) Cummings, Claire Hope. 2005. Trespass.
WorldWatch. January–February.
p. 24–35.
(23) Staff. 2005. Government forced to disclose
locations of test sites of biopharmaceutical
crops [in Hawaii]. February 8.
www.centerforfoodsafety.org/
press_release2.8.05.cfm
(24) Lipson, Mark. 2005. Presentation to NCAT
staff. April 6.
(26) Staff. 2005. Iraq’s patent law hurts farmers. In
Good Tilth. February 15. p. 20.
(27) Dansby, Angela. 2004. EU vs. US: Is a compromise position possible? Research
exemptions and patents sticking points.
SeedWorld. November. Chart. p. 9.
Organic seed production materials
Bean Seed Production: An Organic Seed
Production Manual
http://www.savingourseed.org/pdf/
BeanSeedProductionVer_1pt4.pdf
Isolation Distances
http://www.savingourseed.org/pdf/
IsolationDistancesVer_1pt5.pdf
Seed Processing and Storage
http://www.savingourseed.org/pdf/
SeedProcessingandStorageVer_1pt3.pdf
Tomato Seed Production: An Organic Seed
Production Manual
http://www.savingourseed.org/pdf/
TomatoSeedProductionVer_2pt6.pdf
Page 12
ATTRA
Participatory breeding for organics
Pepper Genetics and Genomes
www.plbr.cornell.edu/psi/ppb.html
Selfers and Crossers
www.growseed.org/selfersandcrossers.html
Organic seed research programs
(25) Staff. 2004. Should there be a GMO tolerance
for organic? The Non-GMO Source. April.
p. 1–2.
Further Resources
Connolly, Bryan (with C.R. Lawn, ed.). 2005.
Organic Seed Production and Saving.
NOFA, Barre, MA.
Order handbook for $7.95 plus 2.00 s/h from
NOFA Handbooks
c/o Elaine Peterson
411 Sheldon Rd.
Barre, MA 01005
For more information visit
www.nofa.org.
Cornell. Public Seed Initiative
www.plbr.cornell.edu/psi/ppb.html
Organic Seed Alliance
www.seedalliance.org/classes.htm
Seeds of Change
www.seedsofchange.com/market_growers/
field_report_39.asp
Washington State University
www.wsu.edu/
Other resources
If a source is not indicated, contact your local librarian to
order the publication or article through Interlibrary Loan.
Publications or articles cited in the text are not included.
Farmers Guide to GMOs
Available from
RAFI-USA
274 Pittsboro Elementary School Road
Pittsboro, NC 27312
919-542-1396
Journey to Forever.
Journeytoforever.org/seeds.html
Seed resources, library.
Moeller, David R./Farmer’s Legal Action Group, Inc.,
and Michael Sligh/Rural Advancement
Foundation International. 2004. Farmers’
Guide to GMOs. 51 p.
www.flaginc.org
Seed Production and Variety Development for Organic Systems
13. Books
2005 Non-GMO Sourcebook (global)
500 suppliers of non-GMO products and services, including seeds and grains. Features
non-GMO corn, soy, and canola grains and
organic seeds. Also experts for GMO testing,
identity preservation, and organic certification. $24.
800-854-0586
ken@non-gmosource.com
www.non-gmosource.com
National Research Council. 2004. Biological Confinement of Genetically Engineered Organisms.
National Academy of Sciences. 219 p.
Tokar, Brian (ed.). 2004. Gene Traders: Biotechnology, World Trade, and the Globalization of
Hunger. Toward Freedom, Burlington, VT.
124 p.
Genetic Engineering vs. Organic Farming
IFOAM.
New periodical.
Articles
American Seed Trade Association. 2003. News
Release: The view of the American Seed
Trade Association on Organic Agriculture.
3 p.
www.amseed.com/newsDetail.asp?id+74
DeVore, Brian. 2004. The secret lives of seeds.
Land Stewardship Letter. April–June.
p. 1, 14–15.
Dillon, Matthew. 2005. “We have the seeds”: Monsanto now the largest vegetable seed producer [with purchase of Seminis]. The
Organic Broadcaster. March–April. p.
2–4.
Dillon, Matthew. 2004. Organic Seed Alliance hosts
Organic Seed Growers Conference. The
Seed Midden. Spring. p. 1, 5.
Dillon, Matthew. 2004. Breeding for organics. The
Seed Midden. Winter. p. 3.
www.seedalliance.org
Dillon, Matthew. 2004. First World Conference on
Organic Seed, Rome, Italy. New Farm. (2part article). August. 8 p. September. 4 p.
www.newfarm.org
DeVore, Brian. 2004. Public Seeds, Public Goods.
Land Stewardship Project (compilation of
newsletter articles). 11 p.
www.landstewardshipproject.org/pdf/
pubseeds_pubgoods.pdf
Glos, Michael. 2004. Public Seed Initiative News.
The Natural Farmer. Fall. p. 8.
Haapala, J.J. 2004. A gardener’s guide to blocking
Beck’s Hybrids. 2003. Final Report: Promotion of
the bio-pirates. In Good Tilth. June 15. p.
Organic Seed and Farming Practices, USDA
8–9.
Block Grant for Promotion of Agriculture
Hamilton, Molly. 2004. North Carolina Organic
project. July. 22 p.
Grain Project. CFSA. September–
Bonina, Jennifer, and Daniel J. Cantliffe. 2004. Seed
October. p. 7.
Production and Seed Sources of Organic
High Mowing Seeds. 2005. Press release: All Things
Vegetables. University of Florida Extension.
Organic Conference, April 30-May 3, 2005.
18 p.
2 p.
http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/HS227
www.organicexpo.net
Brown, Greg. 2004. Commercial organic seed grower
Industries Research and Development Corporation
continues to spread the word. The Spud(Australia). 2004. New rule to ensure
man. January. p. 28.
integrity of organic vegetables. Shaping the
www.spudman.com
Future for Australian Organics. p. 6. www.
Colley, Micaela. 2004. Organic Seed Alliance hosts
rirdc.gov.au/pub/newsletters/organic/organic9.
Organic Seed Growers Conference. 2 p.
html
www.seedalliance.org/
Jensen, Erika. 2004. A model of cooperation: Public
newsletter_Spr_04b.htm
Seed Initiative unites organic farmers, plant
Condom, Mark. 2004. Can organic and biotech coexbreeders. Organic Broadcaster.
ist? AgBiotech Buzz: Roundtable. 4 p.
January–February. p. 1, 2, 9.
http://pewagbiotech.org/buzz/
www.attra.ncat.org
ATTRA
Page 13
14. Jones, Stephen. 2004. Breeding resistance to special
interests. Organic Farming Research Foundation. Fall. p. 4–7.
Kandel, Hans, and Paul Porter. 2004. Small grain
cultivar selection for organic systems. CornerPost (MN). p. 11.
Kittredge, Dan, and Hali Shellhause (transcribers).
2004. Vandana Shiva’s Keynote to the
2004 NOFA Summer Conference. The
Natural Farmer. Fall. p. 23–26.
Lawn, C.R., and Eli Rogosa Kaufman. 2004.
Organic Seed Crop Production: A new niche
for New England farmers. 5 p.
Page 14
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Seed Production and Variety Development for Organic Systems