Orlando, FL (January 6, 2025) - The Iowa State University Seed Science Center (SSC) participated in the annual American Seed Trade Association (ASTA) Field Crop Seed Conference held Dec. 10-13 in Orlando, FL.
This premier event serves as a vital platform for seed professionals from across the industry to come together, exchange ideas, showcase new technologies and research, and discuss innovations shaping the future of seed science.
The SSC was represented with Tess Howard, the Seed Lab Office Manager, attending the event to connect with current customers and forge new relationships with potential clients.
Reflecting on the experience, Howard shares, “The ASTA Field Crop Seed Conference is an incredible opportunity to meet our customers face-to-face, understand their unique needs, and showcase the outstanding work we do at the Seed Lab. Building these connections strengthens our commitment to delivering excellence.”
The Iowa State University Seed Lab is a global leader in seed testing and research, serving clients locally, nationally, and globally. Offering a wide range of services, including germination, purity, and health testing, the lab plays a crucial role in ensuring high-quality seed production worldwide. With its commitment to innovation and precision, the Seed Lab continually supports the seed industry’s growth and success.
Another highlight of the conference was the promotion of the Seed Technology and Business (STB) graduate degree program. This unique program empowers seed industry professionals globally to advance their careers by combining cutting-edge seed science with essential business skills in a single, cross-disciplinary degree. Designed for maximum flexibility, the STB program is entirely online, allowing students to progress at their own pace while balancing work and life commitments.
Lori Youngberg, STB Coordinator, expressed her enthusiasm for connecting with conference attendees: “The ASTA Field Crop Seed Conference is a wonderful venue to meet current, former, and prospective students. Hearing their stories and sharing how the STB program can help them achieve their professional goals is always inspiring.”
Seed exports, a cornerstone of the American seed industry, were a significant topic of discussion. Valued at nearly $2 billion annually, seed exports support thousands of American jobs and drive international trade. SSC Seed Pathologist Dr. Gary Munkvold and Interim Director Dr. Steven Harris presented in a session addressing phytosanitary issues and the critical roles the SSC and the National Seed Health System play in facilitating seamless international trade.
Harris commented on the importance of the conference and the SSC’s efforts: “The ASTA Field Crop Seed Conference provides an excellent platform for tackling global phytosanitary challenges and strengthening partnerships. At the SSC, we are committed to supporting international seed trade by ensuring rigorous health standards and innovative solutions to emerging issues.”
Looking ahead, the SSC is excited to continue its active engagement with ASTA at the upcoming Flower and Vegetable Conference in Orlando, FL, from January 31 to February 4. "The team will be available to assist with all your seed lab, education, research, and industry needs. We look forward to another impactful gathering and advancing the seed industry’s future together."