ASTA Promotes Safe Handling and Storage of Treated Seed during Harvest

Alexandria, VA—August 10, 2021—As harvest begins across the country, the American Seed Trade Association (ASTA) reminds farmers about the importance of taking precautions to ensure treated seed does not enter the grain supply.

“Treated seeds have been widely adopted by growers for good reason – not only are they highly effective, their extremely targeted, precise approach reduces the need for farmers to apply products over the entire field,” said ASTA President & CEO Andy LaVigne. “For the environment, this means less impact on natural resources and non-target organisms. For farmers, it means less production costs, and higher more consistent yields. For consumers, it means greater access to high-quality, affordable food.”

Because some pests can damage the seed or seedling to the extent that there are no rescue treatment options available and the plants may either die or not produce a harvestable yield, seed treatments give farmers confidence that they are proactively managing early-season risk and minimizing the expense and environmental impact of replanting. Farmers and applicators know the importance of the proper management of treated seed to minimize the risk of pesticide exposure to humans and the environment. This includes removing all treated seed left in containers and equipment used to handle harvested grain, and disposing of it properly.

ASTA and other stakeholder groups offer a variety of educational resources to assist those involved in the process of treating, handling, transporting, or planting treated seeds. To learn more, visit: seed-treatment-guide.com.

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Founded in 1883, the American Seed Trade Association (ASTA) represents over 700 companies involved in seed production, plant breeding and related industries in North America. ASTA is the leading voice of action in all matters concerning the development, marketing and movement of seed, associated products and services throughout the world. The association’s broad membership offers varieties from alfalfa to zucchini and all production types including conventional, organic and biotech. ASTA promotes the development of better seed to produce better crops for a better quality of life.