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USDA launches seed sovereignty initiative with $180 million investment

The USDA is investing in the nation’s plant germplasm collections, a move officials say will support future plant breeding and agricultural research.

Speaking at a farm in Prairie City, Iowa on Tuesday, Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins said the initiative will help researchers develop crops better equipped to handle pests, diseases and weather-related challenges.

“A landmark $180 million investment from the USDA to protect the genetic resources unpinning our food system,” Rollins said, “while also paving the way for new breakthroughs that are vital for our food security.”

Rollins says USDA’s National Plant Germplasm System has supported plant breeding and agricultural research for more than 50 years, and the agency is now beginning the process of sequencing the collection’s DNA.

“Over the years the U.S. has significantly invested in international seed collections in foreign countries, while failing to invest in our robust seed collection right here at home,” Rollins said, “which consists of about 600,000 little seeds in little jars.”

USDA chief scientist Dr. Scott Hutchins says the nation’s seed collection is unmatched in size, but much of its genetic potential has yet to be fully utilized.

“600,000 seeds, 16,000 species — it’s a tremendous treasure trove for agriculture,” he said.

Secretary Rollins says the $180 million investment is part of the Trump administration’s seed sovereignty initiative.

Full Press Conference: Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins