This is a voluntary program through which individuals who meet all requirements will be accredited to assign a Canada pedigreed grade name to seed in the United States for marketing in Canada. The purpose is to improve the efficiency of the seed trade between the United States and Canada. The Agricultural Marketing Service of the U.S. Department of Agriculture administers the program.

On December 19, 2007, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed by representatives of the Canadian Food Inspection Agency and USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service which formally initiated the program.

12/26/2007 - USDA Announces Seed Grader Program Recognition by Canadian Food Inspection Agency

Seed Grading Documents: (available from Program Administrator)

Individuals who wish to become accredited seed graders may contact by mail or email the following: Fawad S. Shah, at the address given below.

This initial communication need only express an interest in becoming a seed grader.

Registration information will subsequently be provided.

Dates of training workshops and examinations will be posted on this and other websites at least 30 days prior to their occurrence.

To Be Determined

For more information about the program, please contact:

Fawad S. Shah, Ph.D.

Director

Seed Regulatory and Testing Division

801 Summit Crossing Place, Suite C

Gastonia, NC 28054

Direct: 704-810-8884

Cell: 704-745-7424

Main: 704-810-8871

Fax: 704-852-4109

fawad.shah@ams.usda.gov