The Seed Regulatory and Testing Division (SRTD) tests agricultural and vegetable seeds to bring about efficient, orderly marketing and to assist in the development of new or expanding markets. The test results are reported in a Federal Seed Analysis Certificate. Many importing countries require this certification of U.S. seed and grain. The SRTD is accredited by the International Seed Testing Association (ISTA) and recognized as an unbiased authority for conducting tests on export samples. The SRTD has also achieved ISTA accreditation in seed health and variety testing and accelerated aging.

Voluntary testing services are available to anyone for a fee. Customers submitting seed samples may request any of the following tests:

More information is available on sample sizes to be submitted and other information that must be included with the submitted sample (see Seed Service Fees under Resources). Charges for pathology and variety testing will reflect the actual hours required to complete the test; please contact us for an estimation of the time requirements and charges for specific tests (704) 810-8870.

Seed Regulatory and Testing Division

LS, AMS, U.S. Department of Agriculture

801 Summit Crossing Place, Suite C

Gastonia, North Carolina 28054-2193