And we’re rolling! The American Seed Trade Association has officially kicked off the seed industry’s biggest event of the year, the 2024 Field Crop Seed Convention. Here’s what you need to know.
The 2024 Field Crop Seed Convention is underway, with nearly 1100 delegates representing all components of the seed value chain and 28 countries gathering in Orlando.
Highlights from Today’s Sessions:
- Phytosanitary Session: The first major session of the conference was the Phytosanitary Session , featuring USDA-APHIS-PPQ National Seed Health Coordinator / Sr. Risk Manager, Scott Blackwood; Iowa State University Professor and Interim Director of the Seed Science Center, Steven Harris; Corteva Agriscience Senior Research Scientist Scott Heuchelin; Iowa State University professor Gary Munkvold; and Penn State University Assistant Professor of Global Change Pathology, Veronica Roman-Reyna. Check out the spotlight on Emerging Corn Dieseases.
- Treated Seeds Session: Multiple policy issues face treated seed currently. This session was designed as an opportunity for the seed value chain to compare notes among colleagues about treated seed policy at various government levels. Topics included discussion on legal challenges (both state and federal), stewardship, life-cycle management, overtreatments, and how to support the education and training of regulatory personnel.
- Engage Training: Make Science Make Sense to Today’s Consumer. Biotechnologies are pivotal to producing more food more sustainably for a growing population. But how do we engage with consumers and other stakeholders on scientific, technical and challenging topics in way that makes sense – and builds trust? Hint: it’s not about giving them more information, said Jana McGuire, Communications Director at the Center for Food Integrity Technology and innovation. McGuire said there are three proven steps for “conversations that connect”. We covered it in case you missed it! Read it here.
North America’s biggest tradeshow
More than 100 companies spent much of the day setting up their booths, together making up North America’s biggest seed industry tradeshow floor. Delegates got a sneak peek at the tradeshow during this evening’s ASTA Networking Happy Hour. The tradeshow will run 8:00 am – 6:30 pm tomorrow and and 8:00 am to 5:00 pm Thursday.
What to Look Forward to Tomorrow
- Once again, Ag Economist Dan Basse will be presenting his ultra-popular Global Agricultural Economic Forecast. Stay tuned for a recap of that session in tomorrow evening’s newsletter.
- Looking Ahead: Farmer Forecasts on Future Ag Trends: The agricultural landscape is always shifting, driven by advancements in technology, the impacts of climate change, and evolving consumer expectations. This session will take a closer look at emerging trends from the farmer’s perspective. How can today’s farmers navigate these changes and position themselves for success? Key topics will include market and consumer trends, the influence of policy on farming practices, and predictions for the future of agriculture.
- Sprouting Innovation: Case Studies in Plant Breeding and Seed Production: Ready to be inspired? This session will shine the spotlight on some of the most innovative approaches, breakthrough technologies, and best practices in plant breeding and seed production.
- ASTA Welcome Reception: Sessions and meetings are valuable, but the networking at the Welcome Reception may be the most useful hour of the entire conference. See you there!
Come say hi!
If you’re in Orlando, make sure to find a few minutes to stop by the Seed World Media Center, powered by Corteva Agriscience. Seed World Group President Shawn Brook, Seed World Group Executive Vice President, Operations Madeleine Baerg, and Seed World U.S. Editor Aimee Nielson will be hosting at the Seed World Media Center and would love to share a few minutes with you. You’ll find our uniquely round media center in the foyer outside the tradeshow doors.
