Resources

The Open Source Seed Initiative (OSSI) offers an alternative to restrictive intellectual property protection of seeds. The OSSI model proactively preserves the rights of farmers, gardeners, and breeders to freely use, save, replant, exchange and improve seed of OSSI-Pledged material. In this presentation, Tom Michaels, a professor at the University of Minnesota, will describe the erosion of seed sovereignty he has witnessed during his 40-year career as a public sector plant breeder, how OSSI works and how growing OSSI-pledged seed can support seed freedoms. The presentation will include ample opportunity for audience questions, input and discussion.