2012 Annual Report 1a.Objectives (from AD-416): To obtain germplasm of black cohosh for conservation in the U.S. National Plant Germplasm System. 1b.Approach (from AD-416): Germplasm of black cohosh will be collected in different locations in the U.S. Collecting permits will be obtained as required by law. Germplasm will be collected in the form of seeds or rhizomes and will be documented with locality, latitude and longitude, elevation, plant description, and growing environment. Herbarium voucher specimens will be made as appropriate. Samples of germplasm and associated documentation will be deposited with the U.S. National Plant Germplasm System. A detailed trip report, including information on all samples obtained, will be provided to ARS. 3.Progress Report: A domestic exploration was planned to collect germplasm of black cohosh (a perennial herb with medicinal properties) for the U.S. National Plant Germplasm System. The exploration will take place in the winter of 2012.