Crop seed research continues to lead to new technologies and all kinds of advances.  Andy Levine of the American seed trade association said the research has a variety of impacts.

 

“With molecular marker technology really targeting specific characteristic within plants or seed treatment proving seed treatments and their efficacy.”

 

And don't forget gene editing.  Todd Martin of the Independent Professional Seed Association said there is all kinds of potential when discussing gene editing.

 

“Breaking the yield barrier, breaking some of the stress barriers, but more importantly for independent seed companies what I see the real opportunity is revitalizing germ plasm.  So much of this germ plasm is coming off pat, and there's the ability of these gene editing companies to source some of that off patent germ plasm revitalize it through gene edits.  They can revitalize breeding programs all across the country.”

 

With private, land grant, and USDA research facilities collaborating in many cases in seed in advanced seed research.

 

 

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