Tennessee Crop Improvement Association

The Tennessee Crop Improvement Association is a non-profit organization designated as the official seed-certifying agency in Tennessee. It is classified as a 501(c)(5) organization, focusing on labor, agricultural, and horticultural activities with educational and instructive purposes[4][5].

Purpose and Functions

The primary purpose of the Tennessee Crop Improvement Association is to maintain and provide high-quality seeds and propagating materials to the public. This is achieved through seed certification, ensuring genetic purity and identity of crop varieties. The organization works in cooperation with seed growers, seedsmen, the State Department of Agriculture, the University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture, Agricultural Extension Service, and Agricultural Experiment Stations[2].

The Association offers several key services:

• Seed Certification Standards: Publishes and distributes standards for seed certification that comply with federal regulations and the Association of Official Seed Certifying Agencies[2].
• Record Keeping: Maintains records of origin or pedigree for each grower member's seed[2].
• Foundation Seed: Provides sources of foundation class seed to its members[2].
• Field Inspections: Conducts field inspections and provides laboratory testing services for seed certification[2].
• Certification and Labeling: Offers certification tags, labeling stencils, and bags for seed marketing[2].
• Educational Programs: Holds annual training schools for field inspectors to ensure compliance with certification regulations[2].

Membership and Operations

Membership in the Tennessee Crop Improvement Association is primarily composed of individuals or firms involved in seed production. However, any person or organization interested in promoting the Association's objectives may also become an associate member. The organization does not engage in the buying or selling of certified seeds; instead, it facilitates distribution through established seed marketing channels[2].

Impact

The Tennessee Crop Improvement Association plays a vital role in enhancing agricultural practices in Tennessee by ensuring access to high-quality seeds. This contributes to improved crop yields and the overall sustainability of agricultural operations in the state[3].