France
April 1, 2025
The Section met with a new composition, marking the start of a term of office that will focus on innovation and the use of data. Philippe BARRE, the new Chairman, opened the meeting by highlighting the importance of adaptation to climate change, the use of mixed varieties, and the efficiency of DUS tests with the integration of molecular tools.
The General Secretary, Virginie Bertoux, outlined the CTPS’s missions, notably to provide advice and technical support to the Ministry of Agriculture, and emphasised the specific rules governing the operation of the bodies.
One of the highlights of the meeting was the discussion on the variety re-registration system. The CTPS Forage and Grass Section can propose not to extend the registration of varieties on an agronomic basis. For major species, an index based on data such as Herbe Book or Choix du Gazon is used. If this index is less than 95% of the average for all registered varieties, no extension of registration is proposed.
This approach has given rise to debate.
To address this issue, it has been proposed that a working group be set up to examine the re-registration criteria and propose adjustments. The aim is to strike a balance between genetic innovation and market realities, while ensuring greater transparency in the communication of information about varieties. The composition of this focus group will be discussed shortly, and concrete data on the marketing of varieties will be analysed to inform future decisions.
Topics
Species
