Colorado, USA
February 16, 2026

Colorado State University’s Soil and Crop Sciences Upskilling program has partnered with the Colorado Seed Growers Association to launch a new online micro-credential program designed for seed conditioners and seed producers. The program — made possible through grant funding from SyncUp Colorado, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture and the CHS Foundation — is designed to provide essential knowledge and skills to professionals in the seed industry, empowering them to enhance seed quality and mitigate risks in their operations. 

Improving seed quality from the ground up 

Seed conditioning is a critical process in agriculture. Seed harvested directly from the field is rarely pure — it often contains sticks, stems, debris, soil, weed seeds, other crop seeds, trash, and insects. At its core, conditioning involves cleaning the seed and removing impurities to ensure that the end user receives pure, high-quality seed ready for planting. However, the role of the seed conditioner extends far beyond cleaning. 

“Seed conditioning is an intricate and technical process that requires precision and expertise,” said Laura Pottorff, Director of Colorado Seed Programs. “The decisions made during conditioning can significantly impact the quality and value of the seed, and mistakes can result in costly consequences, including liability and litigation. This program is designed to equip seed professionals with the knowledge and tools they need to succeed in this critical role.” 

Comprehensive curriculum covers science, policy and practice 

The on-demand online program is structured into seven comprehensive modules, which can be taken individually or as a complete series to earn a micro-credential. Each module is designed to address key aspects of seed conditioning and production, including: 

• Seed Conditioning Basics: An introduction to the principles and processes of seed cleaning and preparation. 
• The Influence of Seed Conditioning on Seed Quality: Understanding how conditioning impacts seed purity, germination, and value. 
• Intellectual Property Protection: Navigating intellectual property laws and protecting proprietary seed genetics. 
• Plant Breeding: Exploring the role of plant breeding in seed production and quality improvement. 
• Sourcing, Sampling, and Handling of Unconditioned Seed: Best practices for managing raw seed materials. 
• Quality Assurance, Seed Laws, and Seed Certification: Ensuring compliance with regulations and maintaining high standards. 
• Seed Carryover and Storage: Proper techniques for storing and managing seed inventory to preserve quality. 
• Seed-Borne Disease and Treatment: Identifying and mitigating risks associated with seed-borne pathogens. 

Participants have the flexibility to enroll in individual modules for $50 each or complete all seven modules for $300 to earn their micro-credentials. Continuing Education Units, or CEUs, are available for Certified Seed Approved Conditioners, Certified Crop Advisors and Colorado Department of Agriculture pesticide applicators. This certification signifies a comprehensive understanding of seed conditioning and production, providing professionals with a competitive edge in the global seed industry. 

“This program represents a significant step forward in advancing the knowledge and expertise of seed professionals,” said Deana Namuth-Covert, CSU Upskilling Director. “We’re excited to partner with CSGA to bring this accessible and impactful education opportunity to the seed industry.” 

For more information or to register for the program, visit CSU Upskilling Catalog or contact laura.pottorff@colostate.edu.

About the partners

CSU’s Soil and Crop Sciences Upskilling program offers flexible, online education designed to help agricultural professionals build skills and advance their careers. 

Website: http://www.colostate.edu

Published: February 26, 2026