Wisconsin Ag Connection - Pocan Wants Federal Investments for Seed Quality

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Pocan Wants Federal Investments for Seed Quality
Wisconsin Ag Connection - 05/24/2018

A Wisconsin congressman would like to see the government kick in funding to help create seed varieties that take into account the growing challenges farmers deal with, such as climate, disease, soil and other varying detractors. Rep. Mark Pocan of Madison and Florida Congressman Darren Soto have introduced the Seeds for the Future Act, which requires at least $50 million annually to develop farmer-ready public cultivars, with priority for projects based on geographical needs.

The legislation would also encourage commitment to seed diversification and regional adaptation, while increase efficiency and improving coordination across federal agencies.

Proponents of the effort say the U.S. has fallen behind in federal agriculture research and seed breeding investment, and that China has surpassed the country in spending for the past 10 years.

If approved, the funds will be available through a competitive grant program. Grants will be no less than five years in length to ensure that researchers can create enough progress on farmer-ready cultivars to most effectively use public funds.

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