2 / SEEDWORLD.COM SEPTEMBER 2018 CONTENTS/SEPTEMBER2018 Features, continued Seed Companies Optimistic, Producers Pessimistic Results are in from the July Ag Economy Barometer and producers have low expectations for the year ahead. However, those in the seed industry remain optimistic. Protecting Pollinators A road trip shines a light on projects along the Monarch Highway. A Look at the Future of the Seed Industry Looking to the future causes anxiety about the economy, but do we really need to worry? Q&A with Vilas Rao Creating cohesive teams and digital tools that impact the seed industry is at the heart of what Vilas Rao focuses on daily. Q&A with Drew Kershen The retired professor of agriculture biotechnology and policy law at the University of Oklahoma highlights the importance of biotechnology. Q&A with Alison Van Eenennaam The Extension specialist in animal genomics and biotechnology at the University of California, Davis, shares her excitement for gene-editing and her research on cattle. Researching to Infinity and Beyond With endless knowledge just a click away, how can we engage students to get excited about making their own discoveries? ASTA’s Convention Spotlight ASTA reinvented its annual convention with the inaugural Policy and Leadership Development Conference, creating new opportunities and keeping some traditions. 36 40 44 48 50 52 58 62 Special Section INSIDERS Experts from around the seed industry and those who service it share their perspectives and provide recommendations on everything from seed treatments to equipment and from engineering to content marketing — with the goal of helping you make better, more informed business decisions. 23 Columns 42 57 80 International Agriculture Development Technology adoption is a catch-22. Seed Innovation and Protection Alliance SIPA celebrates four years of success, and the best is yet to come. Giant Views Does the UPOV System Foster Innovation in the Modern World? In Every Issue Strategy Best practices in seed treatment operations include not only knowing what is on the label, but also how to understand it. Cross Pollination Regulatory Roundup World Status Industry News Since 1915 54 68 70 72 74 78 48