b'A WORD ON PROFICIENCY TESTINGAS A RETAILERselling seeds, its important to be aware of the different levels of intel-lectual property involved in seed testing.Watch our full-length webinar to hear from Todd, Kim, Anthony and Melanie on the You should ask your seed lab about theirissue of intellectual property! germination.ca/ip-webinarproficiency testing and certification to ensure that the results you receive are Kim Kenward trustworthy and accurate. 20/20 Seed LabsProficiency testing in seed refers to R&D Manager the process of evaluating the ability of a laboratory to accurately and consistently perform a specific test or analysis related to seed quality. It involves testing the laboratorys performance against estab-lished standards or protocols, often set by external bodies such as seed associations or government agencies. Proficiency testing helps to ensure that seed testing laboratories are produc-ing reliable and accurate results, which in turn helps to build confidence in the seed industry and facilitate trade. It also encourages continuous improvement of testing methods and practices within the laboratory.If youre using a licensed protocol from an IP holder, you need to knowA WORD ON PBR 91that the lab has been authorized to run that specific protocol to the satisfactionCanada amended its legislation in 2015 to comply with the of the IP holder. In cases where there is no third-party authorization, look formost recent international convention on IP protection for plant labs with certifications from organiza- varieties, known as UPOV 91. Before the amendment, Canada had tions like ISO or the International Seeda weaker form of IP protection called UPOV 78. The amendment Testing Association (ISTA) and askaimed to stimulate investment in plant breeding in Canada and to about their internal testing standards. Byprovide Canadian farmers with better access to foreign varieties. understanding the intellectual propertyAdditionally, the amendment aimed to support Canadian breeders and proficiency testing involved in seedin protecting their Canadian-bred varieties internationally. Varieties testing, retailers can have greater confi- protected under UPOV 91 are known as PBR 91 varieties and dence in the results they receive and theprotected with the symbol. quality of the seeds they sell. SUPPORTED BY: ENDORSED BY:52GERMINATION.CAJULY 2023'