The purpose of the Heritage Award is to preserve and build history, honor, and recognize individuals who have significantly impacted ASTA and the seed industry and to inspire the next generation of leaders, and instill a sense of pride in the rich history of the seed industry and ASTA.

In the nearly 140 years that ASTA has been in operation, the seed industry has seen tremendous change and growth. So much of the present and future can be understood by looking back. ASTA has been fortunate to serve members who have contributed to the seed trade industry, an industry that affects every living being on the planet, and one that is essential to the health, happiness and economic security of every community. It is important to acknowledge and respect those that have demonstrated their passion and values to grow better seed to produce better crops for a better quality of life.

Learn About the Nomination Process

Heritage Awards

2022
Dr. Harry Collins
Dr Collins headshot

Harry Collins’ career began to flourish when he went to work as a Soybean Breeder for Delta and Pine Land Company (D&PL) in Scott, MS in 1974. He participated in the development and release of many southern soybean varieties, most notably. “Deltapine 105”, which was a widely grown group 5…Read More

Dr. Owen Newlin
Dr. Owen Newlin headshot

One of Owen Newlin’s most important contributions to the seed industry was his decision in 1971 as President of the Central Division of Pioneer, to substantially increase the planned production of hybrid number 3780 very early in its introduction. He and his team convinced the company to make an enormous…Read More

Norman Borlaug
Norman Borlaug headshot

Norman Borlaug’s obituary read “… he taught the world to feed itself.” Borlaug is credited with saving hundreds of millions to as many as a billion lives from starvation. Awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1970 for his work on the world’s food supply, Borlaug is known the world over…Read More

Jerry Peterson
Jerry Peterson headshot

At age 15, Jerry Peterson joined the family seed business, working with his father and brothers Roy and Larry. Over a distinguished 50-year career, Jerry served as President of Peterson Seed Co. in Shakopee, MN,including a 13-year affiliation with Pioneer Hi-Bred International. He was President of the American Seed Trade…Read More

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