b'FROM OUR DESKCelebrating the IndependentsIN THE RICHtapestry of American agriculture,As we look to the future, we must recognize and independent professional seed companies, sometimesnurture the role of independent professional seed overshadowed by the goliath Big Four, are criticalcompanies. They are more than suppliers; they are to the overall color and shape of the seed industry.custodians of agricultural diversity and community Surveying the heartland of our nations farms, I appre- well-being. Supporting them is not just an investment ciate the vital role these independents play. Theirin a company; its an investment in the fabric of our significance in our agricultural narrative is not just aAmerican agricultural heritage.matter of variety; its a story of resilience, adaptabil- I encourage you to dive deep into our January ity and a deep-rooted connection to the land and itscontent. Weve made an intentional effort to highlight AIMEE NIELSON stewards. independent seed professionals and recognize their Editor, Seed World U.S. The first thing that strikes me about independentvaluable place in the seed industry. In these pages,seed companies is their commitment to diversitynotyoull read thoughts from Scott Sanders, general just in crops, but in ideas and approaches. These com- manager at Peterson Farm Seeds and IPSA board panies often provide unique varieties tailored to localmember, who speaks candidly about the challenges conditions, something the larger players may not beindependents face competing in the marketplace. He able to do in their pursuit of more one-size-fits-all solu- encourages each independent company to look at its tions. This diversity is not just beneficial; its essentialmarketplace challenges and find a way to meet them for the ecological and economic health of local farm- head-on. ing communities. Youll also read about Renk Seeds Jeffrey Renk, Theres a personal element in the way these com- who details the deep family roots of his companya panies operate. As our cover story source and newspecial trait many independent companies shareIPSA president Colin Steen told me: its not uncommonand how those roots push his company forward thanks to find that the person selling you seeds also knowsto the grounding of previous generations. your family, understands your farms history, andIm also pleased to bring you some highlights of the genuinely cares about your harvest and profitability.recent ASTA Field Crop Seed Conference in Orlando. This personal touch extends beyond customer serviceIt was great to meet so many of you face-to-face. The to genuine relationships and trust. This human connec- meeting was so productive, informative and well-tion is both refreshing and necessary. planned; kudos to the organizers at ASTA at the Hyatt These companies are not just businesses; they areRegency Orlando for making the event so fabulous. integral parts of their communities. By providing jobs,Although attendance was down this year for many rea-supporting local agriculture and contributing to thesons including tighter budgets, a tougher marketplace, local economy, they help keep rural America vibrant.a natural tendency to resist the unknown, and travel In an age of rampant urbanization, these companiescomplications, I think its just growing pains of a city often stand as guardians of rural livelihoods. and venue change. I encourage those who didnt make Many times, independent seed companies are atit to Orlando to make it a priority next year. There really the forefront of sustainable practices and innova- is no replacement for face-to-face networking.tion. They are agile and able to quickly adapt to newIf youre attending IPSA in Indianapolis or ASTA challenges and opportunities, from climate changeFlower and Veg in Monterey, please come say hello! to market demands. This agility fosters an environ- As always, please reach out to me with comments, ment where innovation flourishes, often leading toperspectives or future story ideas to anielson@seed-more sustainable and efficient farming practices. Itsworldgroup.com. a reminder that sometimes the best way forward isIts an honor to partner with you,through smaller, more nimble paths rather than wide,AimeeSWbeaten tracks.JANUARY 2024SEEDWORLD.COM /5'