Omaha, Nebraska, USA
January 26, 2011

The Independent Professional Seed Association (IPSA) saw attendance grow by more than 10 percent at the Association’s 22nd Annual Conference and Trade Show, January 18-20 in St. Louis, Missouri. Approximately 330 people registered and attended the program, which featured outstanding keynote speakers on a variety of relevant topics. “Ten percent annual attendance increases in each of the last three years puts the IPSA Annual Conference in a unique position among its peer events”

commented outgoing IPSA President Dennis Lutgen, Star Seed, Osborne, Kansas. IPSA’s Business Development Committee provided insight and support throughout the conference planning process. IPSA President Steve Kinsell with Silver Lane Hybrids, Remington, Indiana served as Chairman of the planning committee and offered this assessment: “This year’s Planning Committee identified several topics and speakers for 2011 that encouraged attendance and participation. I want to thank the Committee for their hard work and energy in bringing this event together, and look forward to 2012.”

IPSA also awarded its 2010 Industry Service Award to Tom Burrus with Burrus Bros. & Associated Growers, Arenzville, Illinois. Tom was recognized for his service to agriculture and to IPSA, having been a two-term Board member and Past President. IPSA CEO Greg Ruehle stated “Tom Burrus and the Burrus family demonstrate what’s best about regional seed businesses all across North America – initiative, intellect, and desire to serve customers – these traits make independently-owned seed companies unique. This award is a very small way for IPSA to recognize Tom’s significant commitment and efforts on behalf of his peers across the country.”

More information can be found at the IPSA website at http://www.independentseeds.com

The Independent Professional Seed Association (IPSA) was formed in 1989 by a group of independent seed producers who recognized the need for an organization to represent independent seed companies world-wide. The Association addresses research and biotechnology issues and increases the media presence of the industry in an increasingly competitive and dynamic business climate. IPSA represents approximately 90 seed companies from 20 states and Canada, who produce and market a significant portion of the corn, soybeans, small grain and forage seeds planted annually.

Website: https://ipseed.org

Published: January 26, 2011