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grass seed

The Minnesota Crop Improvement Association (MCIA) is dedicated to improving the productivity, profitability, and competitive position of agricultural producers, processors, and distributors of agricultural products.

MCIA provides services that enhance the value and improve the marketability of agricultural products. MCIA is the state of Minnesota’s official certification agency for seed and for noxious weed seed–free forage and mulch.

Improving Your Process, Enhancing Your Products, Increasing Your Profits

Services & Programs

seed certification

Seed Certification

As Minnesota’s official seed certifying agency, MCIA provides certification services to producers of seed and other agricultural products. MCIA certifies crop seed, native seed, noxious weed seed-free free forage and mulch, and quality-assured sod. The certification process includes inspection and testing according to recognized standards.
man walking in wheat field analyzing grain

Field and Special Services

MCIA offers an array of on-site inspection, audit, and other quality management services, including field inspection, approved facility, and identity preservation programs, as well as MnDOT-approved seed, sod, and forage and mulch programs. Our staff can also advise producers on how to customize programs to meet their specific needs.
foundation seed services

Foundation Seed Services

MCIA foundation seed services facilitates the movement of crop varieties developed by public plant breeding institutions into the marketplace. MCIA produces and distributes foundation seed, works with University of Minnesota plant breeders for the increase of new crop varieties, and serves as the licensing agent for crop varieties developed by the Minnesota Agricultural Experiment Station.
Organic Certification

Organic Certification

MCIA provides organic certification to crop and livestock producers, handlers and processors, and wild harvesters. MCIA is an Accredited Certifying Agent authorized by the USDA’s National Organic Program. Once certified, operations may use the USDA organic seal on eligible products, improving their marketability and increasing opportunities for global distribution.

Seed Testing Laboratory

Seed Testing Laboratory

MCIA’s seed laboratory offers a host of tests to help seed producers, sellers, and buyers assess seed quality. Seed testing is also the final step in MCIA’s seed certification process. MCIA requires that seed lots that we certify be tested at our laboratory (except for native species).

Directory

Directory

Find MCIA-certified producers, products, facilities, and services by category, or view our complete member Directory.

Upcoming Events

WED 29

Soil Management Summit

January 29 - January 30

Mayo Clinic Health System Event Center

WED 29

MCIA Annual Meeting

January 29

Holiday Inn & Suites St. Cloud

TUE 04

MCIA Board of Directors Meeting

February 04

Virtual

View All Events

Blog

MCIA Board to Propose Bylaws Amendment

Seed Testing and Labeling Reminders

Seed Certification Handbook Updated

In the News

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Seeds of Change: Roger Wippler retires after 34 years with the Minnesota Crop Improvement Association [The Farmer]

2025 MCIA Annual Meeting • January 29, 2025 • St. Cloud, Minnesota
MCIA Annual Meeting Details
2025 MCIA Annual Meeting
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