b'Perspective for a New YearAS I REFLECT ON ASTASprioritiesSITTING AT THEintersection of a com-for 2025, its clear to me that our focusmercial seed business and policy, Im con-remains unwavering: advocating for thestantly reminded of the vital role the seed seed industry amidst a rapidly shiftingindustry plays in agricultures future. I see political and regulatory landscape. Withfirsthand the importance of addressing a new administration stepping in andboth immediate needs and long-term leadership changes in Congress, our firstopportunities. One area that stands out is quarter will be crucial. Its our job to beour work on sustainability and regenera-the face and voice of the seed industry,tive agriculture. Several years ago, ASTA ensuring that the new political appoin- elevated sustainability to a pillar in its BY ANDY LAVIGNEtees and policymakers understand theBY DAN FOORstrategic plan, and its been incredible to ASTA President and CEO vital role we play in agriculture. WhetherVP Remington Seeds,see the progress. From advancing cover its through direct engagement inLLC and ASTA Board ofcrop adoption to leveraging partnerships Washington, D.C., or through our state- Directors Chair like the Food and Agriculture Climate level partnerships, were committed toAlliance, were equipping our members ensuring our members perspectives are heard loud and clear. with the data and tools they need to drive meaningful change.The Farm Bill, of course, is a top priority. Its imperative weRegenerative agriculture isnt just a buzzword; its a move-achieve the certainty it brings to farmers and seed producers,ment were actively shaping. High-quality seed is where it all particularly in these unpredictable times. The Farm Bill exten- begins, whether its for conservation, grasslands, or reclamation sion will give us the breathing room needed to continue pushingefforts. Seeing our members involved in programs that restore for a robust bill that supports Americas agricultural backbone.landscapes and support sustainability goals makes me proud to Beyond this, were doubling down on messaging the incrediblebe part of this industry.innovation and research that go into the high-quality seed ourAnother area Im optimistic about is the wave of innovation members produce. This is the cornerstone of modern agriculture,sweeping through agriculture. The tools and technologies being and its essential that policymakers and the public alike under- developedfrom predictive breeding to advances in artificial stand its significance. intelligenceare transforming how we approach challenges. Its Looking ahead, the upcoming ASTA Leadership Summita level of innovation akin to Moores Law in computing, where feels especially timely. With so much change on the horizon,genetic discoveries are doubling at a very rapid pace.The future the Summit provides an unparalleled opportunity for seedis bright, but we must ensure that policy and regulation keep industry leaders to meet with Congress and key USDA andpace with these advancements to unlock their full potential.Administration officials, just as theyre settling into their newTalent retention remains a challenge, however, and its roles. Its a chance to educate and advocate when it mattersone that keeps me up at night. Attracting bright minds to our most. industry and providing them with the opportunities to grow and Innovation remains another bright spot. While the expirationinnovate is critical. Its a conversation Im deeply invested in, and of key genetic and trait patents in the coming years presentsone that we, as an industry, must address head-on.some challenges, its also a tremendous opportunity for growthTrade, too, is an area of concern. As U.S. agriculture becomes and collaboration. By working together, we can ensure a seam- increasingly reliant on global markets, we need to reassert our less transition for seed companies looking to incorporate theseleadership on the world stage. Isolationist tendencies can be technologies into their breeding programs while maintainingharmful not only for our farmers, but for the broader agricultural global trade standards. economy. Rebuilding strong trade relationships will be essential Navigating these changes isnt always easy, but as someonein the years to come. In addition, we need to continue to advo-whos weathered several administration transitions, Im optimisticcate for policies and programs that support existing and new about the resilience of our industry. Were ready to tackle theopportunities to utilize and expand our domestic production.challenges head-on, and Im excited for whats ahead. Despite these challenges, I remain hopeful. The spirit of innovation, collaboration, and resilience in our industry is unpar-alleled. As we step into 2025, Im confident that were laying the groundwork for a stronger, more sustainable future for seeds and agriculture.48/ SEEDWORLD.COMFEBRUARY 2025'