Kentucky 31 Tall Fescue Grass Seed Labeling Violations Issued by Oregon Department of Agriculture

On June 25, the Seed Regulatory Program of the Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA) released findings from an investigation into fraudulent labeling and misrepresentation of grass seed as Kentucky 31 Tall Fescue Grass Seed. Those findings resulted in civil penalties of $248,000 against one company. Additional similar actions by ODA are possible, as a result of those findings. Intentional varietal mislabeling is a serious violation of state and federal seed laws. The American Seed Trade Association (ASTA) supports the action of the Oregon Department of Agriculture and advocates ethical standards and statutory compliance in the development, marketing and movement of all seed.

“Seed fraud with any variety should not be tolerated,” said Pat Miller, ASTA Director of State Affairs. “The seed industry has a long history of integrity. Comprehensive monitoring, testing, and enforcement of all seed laws provides customer assurance and promotes fair competition.” ASTA encourages all state and federal regulatory authorities to initiate administrative proceedings against anyone who violates any seed law provision or regulation, and issue subsequent fines and penalties as allowed per the law.