With the 2019 ASTA CSS & Seed Expo right around the corner, Mark Seem, technical team agronomist support for LG Seeds, remembers his favorite traditions for the show.
Seed World: Favorite holiday tradition?
Mark Seem: I kickoff my holiday season after the ASTA CSS & Seed Expo with the annual Christmas Party at the Chicago Historical Museum. Then, we check out the Christmas tree light display at the Museum of Science and Industry and later wrap up the holiday season by spending Christmas Day at the Newport Aquarium near Cincinnati.
SW: No. 1 Hobby?
MS: I enjoy going to INDYCAR races as much as possible. I also like to cook, especially BBQ, chili and cheesecakes.
SW: Why did you decide to specialize in agronomy?
MS: I was interested in understanding crops and their relationships with soils and weather because those factors are so crucial for production agriculture. In a time of increased economical and environmental challenges, agronomy and plant breeding must be at the forefront of managing the conservation and sustainability of our resources for the future.
SW: We’ve also heard that you’ve been hugely involved at the ASTA CSS & Seed Expo conference over the years. What’s your favorite part of this conference?
MS: I’ve been passionate about the ASTA CCS & Seed Expo since I started attending in 1977. Having been Chairman of both the Corn Division and the Soybean Division of ASTA, along with being on the planning committee, I’ve seen first-hand that the success of the seed industry (and ASTA) is driven by companies and people who have a life-long dedication to supporting seed. My favorite part of the convention is networking with people from across all spectrums of the seed industry, and of course the educational sessions that are such a valuable experience in Chicago.
SW: What’s one thing you’d recommend doing to someone who’s attending the ASTA CSS & Seed Expo for the first time?
MS: Attend an educational session or two, take in the expo and, most importantly, meet and greet other seed people. The conference draws attendees from all facets of the seed industry, so there is something to be learned from every interaction you have.
