Organic Seed Alliance turns 20 this year, a milestone we couldn’t have reached without you! Thank you for supporting our seed programs, policy work and progress through the years. In addition to celebrating a big birthday and so many shared accomplishments, we are revitalizing our vision and our approach to seed work.
Here’s what’s new:
- Mission and Vision statement, putting the seed growers we support front and center!
- A new policy platform that centers diversity, equity, health, and the public interest.
- A 2023 strategic framework focusing on our role as a convener, regional strategies and the need to deepen equity in our organization and community.
To celebrate 20 years of good seed work, we are uplifting each of our vital program areas.
Education
OSA’s seed education is an invaluable resource, as few educational and agronomic programs available to farmers focus on seed. To grow farmer skills in the face of consolidation, our educational offerings include our newsletter, field days, conferences, webinars, a rich library of free publications, our national Seed Course and Mentorship Program, and more. By supporting the learning of seed stewards, we are growing the strength of our seed and food systems.
Research & Development
Our research with seeds is unique in that it is participatory: we directly collaborate with those we aim to serve. Using this approach, we’ve nurtured thousands of breeding lines for future varieties in development, working hand in hand with farmers in the field and collaborating with research partners at universities and seed companies. This research has led to the development of ‘Abundant Bloomsdale’ spinach and ‘Who Gets Kissed?’ sweet corn. More recently we’ve been hard at work breeding organic carrots, tomatoes, and other vegetables.
Advocacy
We envision a future where seed is collectively managed, not commoditized. Our policy work engages Congress in timely initiatives, such as our call to prioritize seed in the 2023 Farm Bill for resilient agriculture and a healthier planet. In addition, our 2023 Policy Platform For Seed provides a roadmap for further action at the federal level, as well as at administrative, regulatory, and state levels. We also take part in participatory policy actions, research, and discussions nationally, including the release of the State of Organic Seed report every five years, which informs programs and policymakers. We oppose the privatization of seeds through initiatives like Seed Patent Watch, and instead advocate for policies that protect seed and seed growers.
Our vision remains strong: to grow an equitable, abundant, and resilient future of food through the power of seed. Invest today in OSA programs that offer a fair and farmer-centric alternative to the powers that be. Together, we’re ensuring a diverse, quality, and just future for organic seed.
From the archives: We are looking back with gratitude for all that has gone into the last 20 years of good seed work at Organic Seed Alliance! These photos are just a snapshot of the efforts that have coalesced to grow seed for the common good, and we are excited to continue onward. Join us!
