b'CONTENTS / JANUARY 2024Features,continued Columns28 Conventional BreedingWith05 From our Deska High-tech Twist Celebrating the IndependentsChemical mutagenesis as a plant breeding tool is not new, but its48 SIPApower is growing thanks to cutting- Independent Seed Companies Top Strengths are People and edge software advancement andCustomer Serviceprivate industry innovation. 56 Giant Views36 Can Independents Compete inShould State-Level Seed Agencies Invest Outside of State?Todays Seed Market Reality? The USDA has taken some strides intended to promote fair competi-tion in the seed industry. Is that effort adequate?40 All in the FamilyOne of the biggest defining features of many independent seed com-panies is their complex, beautiful, sometimes challenging intersection54 56of business and family.44 Looking to Fast-Track Your Career?Seed World Group and UC DavisSpecial Sectionsare collaborating to empower seed industry professionals via an34 INSIDERSexclusive professional developmentProblems tackling an issue in your business? Cant seem to find a tuition benefit. creative solution? Our INSIDERS are here to provide advice, tack-ling problems from social media to seed sizing to stewardship.In Every Issue On The Cover46 Strategy Colin Steen, Legacy Agripartners Digital Agriculture isCEO and new IPSA president.Helping Mitigate thePhotos by Minneapolis-based Effects of ExtremeMark BaselWeather50 World Status52 Industry News54 Breeding History402/ SEEDWORLD.COMJANUARY 2024'