The chairman and first vice chair of the American Seed Trade Association (ASTA) are pleased with this year’s turnout at CSS 2014 and Seed Expo and with the direction of the organization.
ASTA chair John Schoenecker with HM. Clause of California says the program is exceptionally good this year. “Everything from bee health to cover crops, the international treaty for plant genetic resources, improving consistency, and much more,” he said.
Schoenecker is very excited about the new consumer research announced this week and the planned communications outreach. “Our membership and board decided to commit significant resources over the next three years to better understand and help educate the consumer about the impact of seed on their life,” he said. Interview with ASTA chair John Schoenecker, HM. Clause
As the first vice chair, Risa DeMasi of Grassland Oregon will be taking over as ASTA chairman next summer, so implementing the communications outreach to consumers will fall under her leadership. “I’m excited about it,” said Risa. “We have a great story to tell because if you think about it, everything around you comes from a seed.”
Risa is also pleased with the attendance at the CSS-Seed Expo this year and a larger media presence with a new media room sponsored by BASF. Interview with ASTA 1st vice chair Risa DeMasi, Grassland Oregon
2014 ASTA CSS & Seed Expo photo album
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