Concerns about seed shortages in drought-stricken areas of North Dakota have eased, says Ken Bertsch, North Dakota state seed commissioner.

“We still anticipate problem areas and crops. The southwestern two-thirds of the state has below-average or poor yields in most crops. Of most concern are durum, flax, field pea and other pulse crops commonly produced in drier climates of western North Dakota,” he says.

In eastern and northeastern counties, cereal crop yields, in particular, were in the good to excellent range. This year’s crop and much of last year’s carryover seed supply will help shore up the reduced supply available locally in those areas affected by drought. 

“We are still encouraging producers to source seed early, especially if logistics demand movement from areas of surplus to shortage,” Bertsch says. “There appears to be potential for good seed quality based on reports of adequate to good test weights.”

Seed for many crop types, especially cereal crops, can be maintained in storage for extended periods of time without a loss of seed quality.

Certification and labeling of carryover seed that has been properly segregated to maintain genetic purity is relatively simple and within the rules of seed production and labeling, Bertsch says.

Carryover certified seed that has previously been labeled simply needs to have an updated germination test completed to meet labeling requirements.

Carryover field-inspected seed that is eligible for final certification must be conditioned and tested to ensure the product meets certification standards and labeling requirements.

“I’m convinced certified seed will command a premium this spring,” Bertsch says. “We encourage growers who have any inspected seed in the bin to hold on to that seed.”

The State Seed Department publishes a field-inspected seed directory each fall. This publication contains information on seed varieties, growers and seed retailers throughout North Dakota. The seed directory will be available online at nd.gov/seed/field_directory/index.aspx on Oct. 1 Hard copies are generally printed and available by the first week in December.

Some information provided by the North Dakota State Seed Department, Fargo.