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Seed Program Advisory Committee
The Minnesota Seed Program Advisory Committee (SPAC) was formalized in 2020, formerly the Seed Program Advisory Group. SPAC's purpose is to provide advice to the Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) on how the Minnesota Seed Law is administered in the state. The committee also evaluates plant species of concern to determine whether they should be listed as noxious weed species.
The group meets three times annually and includes representatives from:
- The College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences or Extension at the University of Minnesota
- Minnesota Crop Improvement
- The seed industry in Minnesota, a minimum of six members with representing multinational, national, regional, and Minnesota seed companies
- The grain industry in Minnesota
- Minnesota farmers
- Other state and federal agencies with an interest in seed
- Other members as needed
To become a member, a person must meet the qualifications outlined in Minnesota Statute 21.851 and apply when an open position becomes available through the Minnesota Secretary of State's Office.
Meetings are posted on the Minnesota Department of Agriculture events calendar.
Minnesota Crop Improvement Association
As the official seed certifying agency in Minnesota, the Minnesota Crop Improvement Association works closely with the Minnesota Department of Agriculture to ensure that all certified, registered, and foundation seed is labeled according to the Minnesota Seed Law.
Minnesota Association of County Agricultural Inspectors
The Minnesota Association of County Agricultural Inspectors (MACAI) is made up of individuals appointed as County Agricultural Inspectors and Designated employees for each county in Minnesota. County Agricultural Inspectors assist the seed program by conducting seed sampling inspections and helping with seed investigations.
Other Partners
The Minnesota Department of Agriculture Seed Program works with local, state, and federal agencies, and other groups in order to achieve a well-distributed network aimed at enforcing the Minnesota Seed Law.
