To help ensure genetic purity and maintain high performance standards, all NDSU-bred varieties are protected under PVPA Title V and must be sold as a class of certified seed. Anyone wishing to grow or sell these varieties must have a valid license agreement.
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Licensing Overview
Licensing for NDSU varieties is managed through two channels:
NDSU Research Foundation (NDSURF)
NDSURF handles licensing for certain NDSU varieties, including specific crops such as edible beans.
Exclusive Licensees
Other varieties are licensed exclusively through partners such as the North Dakota Crop Improvement & Seed Association (NDCISA).
Please note that the NDSU Research Foundation does not sell seed directly.
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Purchasing NDSU Seed
Seed may be purchased from licensed growers or through ND Foundation Seedstocks, which serves as the official Foundation Seed Program for NDSU. This program includes:
Main Office - NDSU Fargo
The main office provides administrative support, manages dry bean seed production and distribution, and oversees seed sales and distribution for ancillary USDA programs.
Research Extension Centers (RECs)
Located in Carrington, Langdon, Minot, and Williston, along with the Agronomy Seed Farm in Casselton, these sites produce and distribute Foundation seed of NDSU varieties. When capacity allows, RECs may also provide contract production services for other seed companies.
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Request a License
To request a license for an NDSU variety through the NDSU Research Foundation, please visit the Agreement Portal (coming soon!).
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Explore NDSU Varieties
Browse available NDSU varieties, seed characteristics, and performance data. If you have any questions, please contact us—we’re here to help!