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ARS Home » Pacific West Area » Pullman, Washington » Plant Germplasm Introduction and Testing Research » Research » Research Project #449233
Research Project: Curation and Characterization of the Plant Genetic Resources of the Seeds of Success Program

Location: Plant Germplasm Introduction and Testing Research

Project Number: 2090-21000-037-033-A
Project Type: Cooperative Agreement

Start Date: Feb 1, 2026
End Date: Jan 31, 2029

Objective:
The objectives of this cooperative research agreement are to: 1. Develop capacity to manage, distribute, and utilize Seeds of Success (SOS) collections curated at the USDA ARS Western Regional Plant Introduction Station (WRPIS), including accessioning, documentation, and distribution through the National Plant Germplasm System (NPGS). 2. Generate scientific knowledge supporting native seed-based restoration, including germination biology, genetic diversity, landscape genetics, seed zone determination, trait evaluation, and deployment of native plant materials for restoration and conservation. 3. Strengthen interagency collaboration among USDA ARS, Land Grant Universities, and NRCS Plant Materials Centers to advance restoration genomics, seed zone tools, and development of native plant materials.

Approach:
The project will integrate genebanking, geospatial analysis, genomics, plant trait evaluation, and restoration science to support the national SOS program. Activities include: • Staffing and technical support for seed receiving, cleaning, inventory management, and GRIN Global documentation (passport data, images, metadata). • Curation and maintenance of SOS accessions within PGITRU programs (Cool Season Grass PGR, Horticultural PGR, Temperate Forage PGR). • Development of geospatial tools, interactive maps, and information to support restoration practitioners as pertains to the utility of SOS species collections. • Collaborative research on genetic diversity, seed zones, landscape genomics, and trait variation in priority native species (e.g., Elymus glaucus, Achnatherum hymenoides, and other SOS taxa). • Integration of SOS collections into NRCS and university research trials for germination testing, stand establishment, seed production, and evaluation of adaptive traits. • Engagement with federal and non federal partners working in restoration, conservation genetics, and plant material development.