Conserving fruit and nut germplasm in the U.S. National Plant Germplasm System: foundation for our food supply

Authors: Kinard, Gary; Bassil, Nahla; Hummer, Kim; Reinhold Aboosaie, Lauri; Aradhya, Mallikarjuna; Smith, Jenny; Galarneau, Erin; Gutierrez, Benjamin

Submitted to: Pomona
Publication Type: Trade Journal
Publication Acceptance Date: 1/31/2022
Publication Date: 2/7/2022
Citation: Kinard, G.R., Bassil, N.V., Hummer, K.E., Reinhold, L.A., Aradhya, M.K., Smith, J.L., Galarneau, E.R., Gutierrez, B.L. 2022. Conserving fruit and nut germplasm in the U.S. National Plant Germplasm System: foundation for our food supply. Pomona. Volume LV, No. 1, Winter 2022:31-33.

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: The U.S. National Plant Germplasm System (NPGS) is a cooperative effort to promote the collection, conservation, documentation, and utilization of plant genetic resources for food and agriculture. The NPGS is managed by the Agricultural Research Service (ARS) of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Many partners assist the NPGS in these activities, most notably land grant universities that provide infrastructural and operational support for many of the 20 genebank locations. Extensive collections of horticultural and specialty crops are a strength of the NPGS. Deciduous temperate fruit crops are curated primarily at genebanks in Corvallis, OR; Davis, CA; and Geneva, NY. Distributing germplasm, free of charge, to requestors with an appropriate justification and, as required, the necessary permits is a primary objective of the NPGS. Requests for germplasm from members of serious hobbyist and specialty growing organizations can be especially challenging to evaluate. We recognize that such organizations are frequently partners in conserving and making available unique germplasm, especially for heritage or heirloom cultivars where the NPGS cannot curate all of them. This article provides guidance and suggestions for members of North American Fruit Explorers when requesting germplasm from the NPGS.