Worldwide, the genetic variability of nearly all plant species is dwindling at an alarming rate. Varieties which have been grown by farmers and gardeners for centuries are fast becoming extinct, and plant breeders and other crop workers believe this bodes ill for the future of agriculture everywhere. The Scatterseed Project was founded to help prevent such loss. The Project is basically a one-man effort, supported completely by sample fees and contributions from others. It is by no means profit-making, but designed solely to serve the interests of those who till the soil.
Some material is sent in by friends, missionaries, tourists, etc., traveling abroad.
We cooperate with the various regional facilities of the United States Plant Germplasm System , obtaining foreign varieties from them to further distribute to others, while in turn supplying them with material resulting from our searches. Varieties are preserved and propagated at Khadighar, in Industry, Maine. When seedstocks are sufficiently increased, they are distributed to interested parties. Clonal collections are presently being monitored for indication of viral infestation. Collections include most vegetables, legumes, small grains, and tree fruits, which are hardy or mature seed in our Maine season.