USDA Makes Historic Investment into Plant Germplasm Research

ASTA applauds the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) historic support for the National Plant Germplasm System (NPGS), a program that ASTA has long advocated for. The announcement on October 6 of a $180 million investment into the NPGS will help ensure the United States remains a world leader in seed, genetics, and germplasm preservation and research – which serve as the backbone of American agriculture.  

“This announcement by USDA is a long-awaited moment for the seed industry,” said Andy LaVigne, ASTA President & CEO.” ASTA has continuously highlighted the role the National Plant Germplasm System plays in the agricultural innovation pipeline. We commend the USDA’s efforts to strengthen and revitalize how we sustain, sequence, and safeguard this vital American resource. This development is a strong step forward, not just for the seed industry, but also for the entire agricultural economy, and ASTA remains committed to advocating for the future of the system.” 

To learn more, view ASTA’s press release here. For media inquiries, contact Kaity Crawford, ASTA’s Director, Marketing & Communications.