NU Horizon Genetics has partnered with the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) to provide seed growers and affiliates with UNL-developed small grain seed varieties. This exciting collaboration aims to promote, market, and sell certified seed of wheat, barley, and triticale varieties, transforming the small grain industry in Nebraska and the High Plains region.
NU Horizon Genetics, a non-profit marketing group led by experienced certified seed growers, including Chris Cullan, Leon Kriesel, Mark Knobel, Eric Nelson, and renowned small grains breeder Steve Baenziger, is dedicated to supporting and showcasing UNL's exceptional small grain varieties.
The transition of seed distribution responsibilities from the Nebraska Crop Improvement Association (NCIA) to NU Horizon Genetics allows for a more focused approach. NCIA will now concentrate on seed certification and testing, while NU Horizon Genetics takes the lead in bringing UNL's cutting-edge varieties to the forefront.
NU Horizon Genetics, under the guidance of its executive director Jeff Noel, is now responsible for marketing and commercializing Clearfield Wheat Varieties, including those developed by UNL, through a licensing agreement with BASF. This expanded portfolio solidifies NU Horizon Genetics as a key player in the small grain industry.
NU Horizon Genetics will collect royalties from seed sales and remit them to NUtech Ventures, UNL's technology transfer office, ensuring continued support for research and development.
UNL's Assistant Professor of Agronomy and Horticulture, Katherine Frels, is excited about this partnership, recognizing the opportunity it presents to enhance testing, marketing, and seed availability. Frels emphasizes that this collaboration will introduce UNL's top-tier wheat, barley, and triticale varieties to producers across Nebraska and foster new relationships in the local seed industry.
As the fall season approaches, the collaboration between NU Horizon Genetics and UNL promises to transform the small grain landscape, bringing new opportunities and prosperity to Nebraska and the High Plains region.
NU Horizon Genetics can be reached at nuhorizongenetics@gmail.com or (402) 540-9359 if seed dealers are interested in getting the UNL cultivars for certified seed sales.
Photo Credit: istock-sasapanchenko
Categories: Nebraska, Crops