By Kris Folland, Field Services Manager
The MCIA Field Services staff and field inspection team is well positioned geographically and well trained in all areas of field inspections. One of the largest parts of the MCIA field inspection program, outside of certification, is the “Field Inspect Only” program. These field inspections are conducted according to the applicant’s requirements. Used primarily by large private seed and genetics companies, these inspections are often based on certification and/or company standards for varietal purity, isolation, and other field specifications.
MCIA field staff has decades of experience matching variety descriptions and applying purity standards as high as 100 percent. Documenting exact varietal descriptions and offtypes found can be another valuable tool for seed companies and producers. The field staff eagerly conducts field reporting on company iPads, cell phone field applications, and paper copies.
There is still time to apply for field inspection and consult with MCIA about your seed field inspection. Feel free to give us a call any time to discuss your needs.
Seed growers requesting certification and other field inspection are encouraged to submit applications as soon as possible along with proof of seed source. Due dates are upon us and having applications in hand helps us plan for an efficient and cost-effective inspection season. If you have any changes to your field inspection applications or issues including reseeding, please let us know.
To producers of noxious weed seed–free forage and mulch: Remember applications are due within four weeks of cutting. Contact your field supervisor with any questions about this program.
By the time this column is posted, MCIA field inspectors will be inspecting perennial grasses, natives, and rye. Flower inspections in soybeans will not be far behind. With the inspection season approaching, isolations should be established where needed. If you notice any issues with your seed fields, such as potential variety contamination issues, other crop mixture, or anything that may compromise the integrity of your seed, please contact and inform your field supervisor prior to inspection and harvest.
As always, let us know of any questions or needs you may have. Whether you are an independent seed grower or a large company, the Field Services staff enjoy working with each of you. We are here to serve the needs of our members, no matter the size of their operation.