Seed trade group chooses new officers

The American Seed Trade Association (ASTA) recently held its 132nd annual Convention in Washington, D.C., where it elected its new officers.

The convention, which is the seed industry’s major policy meeting, began with two-day Storm the Hill, in which participants conducted a record 129 visits with members of Congress.

During the convention, ASTA elected and inaugurated new officers for the 2015-16 term. Risa DeMasi from Grassland Oregon in Salem, Oregon, was chosen as to be the new chair. Mark Herrmann from Monsanto Vegetable in Oxnard, California, was elected first vice chair. Tracy Tally from Justin Seed in Justin, Texas, will serves as the new second vice chair.

Issues challenging the industry were discussed during the gathering. Participants also addressed the priorities for the ASTA this coming year. 

During the keynote speech at the convention, Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack focused on the important role that the American seed industry must fulfill in order for the agriculture in the U.S. to succeed. His presentation is available online.

Members of the agricultural industry are eager to see how the new leaders will move the industry and the economy forward.