Notes to broadcasters: Traditional seeds and seed ownership

    | September 23, 2013

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    The article on which this story is based can be read in full on the Trust website at: http://www.trust.org/item/20130912155203-nakfz/?source=hptop&utm_source=MailingList&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Alertnet+Expresso+September+13

    Seeds are essential for farming. They provide security and continuity. Seeds are the first link in the food chain, and therefore in community and household food security. Seed quality, accessibility of seed, and variety of seed are vital determinants of the success of a farmer’s crop. The central importance of seeds explains why seed issues are contentious and often in the news.

    In this week’s story, one official suggests that farmers would be better off using company-produced seed. The issue of seed ownership, or patent, is important. Comprehensive Notes to broadcasters on seed ownership were published by Farm Radio Weekly in issue #149 from March 2011. Please access them through this link: http://weekly.farmradio.org/2011/03/21/notes-to-broadcasters-on-seed-ownership-3/

    Farm Radio International has produced a number of scripts related to seeds:

    Two women rice farmers discuss their best seed saving practices: Package 85, Script 5, September 2008. http://www.farmradio.org/radio-resource-packs/package-85/two-women-rice-farmers-discuss-their-best-seed-saving-practices/

    Starting a community seed bank: Package 56, Script 6, July 2000. http://www.farmradio.org/radio-resource-packs/package-56-biodiversity-contributes-to-food-security/starting-a-community-seed-bank/

    Collecting seeds for a community seed bank: Package 56, Script 7, July 2000. http://www.farmradio.org/radio-resource-packs/package-56-biodiversity-contributes-to-food-security/collecting-seeds-for-a-community-seed-bank/

    Save your Own Seeds, Part One: Seed Selection. Package 42, Script 1, October 1996. http://www.farmradio.org/radio-resource-packs/package-42/save-your-own-seeds-part-one-seed-selection/

    Save your Own Seeds, Part Two: Seed Storage. Package 42, Script 2, October 1996. http://www.farmradio.org/radio-resource-packs/package-42/save-your-own-seeds-part-two-seed-storage/