This allows plant breeders to recover some of the considerable cost of research and development, spent to create the best possible varieties for farmers, consumers and the environment. The purchase of protected varieties gives farmers the benefits of superior varieties. In return, farmers are expected to pay a small royalty, included in the purchase price, and not sell the production as seed. Farmers may store the production in their own bins for their own use as seed, but further sales for propagation purposes are not allowed without the written approval of the breeder. Violations of Plant Breeders' Rights can result in litigation and court ordered restitution to the breeder.
Plant breeding is an incredibly valuable resource to farmers.
The cost of dedicated research is great and must be recovered from the sale of varieties. That is why Svalof Weibull is trying to increase awareness of Plant Breeders' Rights, to encourage continued funding for plant research which will result in the best possible new varieties for Canadian farmers. In a world with growing demand for food and a desire to improve production without the use of chemicals, plant breeding is the best way to meet these needs. Improved varieties mean better returns for farmers and a more secure food supply for the world.