The Wisconsin Crop Improvement Association (WCIA) announced that its Seed Laboratory has achieved accreditation by the US Department of Agriculture Accredited Seed Laboratory (ASL) program. Gaining ASL accreditation highlights the accuracy, quality, and reliability of test reports and other quality- and compliance-related services offered by WCIA. Successful completion of the rigorous ASL accreditation program is another milestone attained by WCIA over the course of its 121-year history.
The development and implementation of a comprehensive Quality Management System was crucial to the Seed Laboratory’s accreditation. “USDA ASL accreditation is the result of months of hard work by our staff and demonstrates our continued commitment to delivering the highest quality services to customers,” said WCIA Executive Director, John Petty. “This value-added benefit expands business opportunities for our customers and elevates WCIA’s standing as one of the premier seed certification agencies in the nation.”
The USDA ASL program is a voluntary, user fee–based program for seed testing laboratories, administrated by the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service. U.S. seed laboratories that participate in the ASL program are also recognized by the Canadian government as equivalent to laboratories certified by the Canadian Food and Inspection Agency.
One of the key advantages of ASL accreditation for Seed Laboratory customers will be easier access to foreign markets. Seed analysis certificates from participating laboratories can now be used to gain admission to most foreign markets that require official testing. Next month, WCIA will be completing the requirements for the USDA-administered Canadian Seed Grader Program. In combination, the two programs offer yet another valued-added benefit for WCIA’s customers. Seed tested at WCIA may now be moved into Canadian markets without the need for additional testing and grading in Canada. As a result, WCIA’s customers will enjoy significant savings of both time and money.
Since 1901, Wisconsin Crop Improvement Association has provided programs and services to meet the needs of an ever-changing agricultural world. These services include seed certification and seed laboratory services for seed producers and seller/labelers throughout Wisconsin and the upper Midwest. WCIA operates from facilities at the University of Wisconsin’s Crop Innovation campus in Middleton with field staff located throughout Wisconsin.
