General Info

Minnesota Crop Improvement Association ( MCIA ) is one of the oldest agricultural organizations in the state of Minnesota. It was originally organized in 1903 by people interested in the "systematic encouragement for the use of pedigreed seed." In recent years the association has diversified to offer new and expanded services to members. MCIA is nonprofit and dedicated to improving the productivity, profitability and competitive position of its members. It is governed by a board of directors, operates on fees charged for services performed and offers an array of certification, parent and Foundation seed, Quality Assurance, Identity Preserved, Organic Certifcation Services, customized third-party and a host of laboratory services. MCIA is officially recognized by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture and the Minnesota Agricultural Experiment Station as the state's official seed certifying agency and official noxious weed seed free forage and mulch certifying agency. MCIA is a member of the Association of Official Seed Certifying Agencies ( AOSCA ). AOSCA is the global organization to which all seed certifying bodies belong and assists in the coordination of multi-state inspection programs, standardization of programs across state lines and with international tag recognition. All MCIA programs are endorsed by AOSCA ; MCIA management staff play an intricate role in AOSCA and standards' development. Each MCIA program is backed by a century of experience and integrity. While current program review and enhancement are on-going, MCIA staff members work with customers on new program implementation and market development.