Ever wondered how we can work together to source, grow, and sell seed?

At the Bauta Family Initiative on Canadian Seed Security, we work toward a future where farmers have the power to save, improve, and share the seeds they rely on. That means building a seed system rooted in genetic diversity, regional adaptation, and collective care.

Seed systems are complex—shaped by geography, labour, economics, policy, and culture. They involve trade-offs. No single model is perfect. This series is about holding space for nuance, highlighting under-recognized work, and building shared understanding of the systems that feed us.

We invite you to join us—with curiosity and care—as we shine a light behind the packet.

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Join us for a deep-dive into the people-powered side of seed systems: cooperative seed growing models. In a world of hybrids, patents, and mysterious seed sourcing, we’re spotlighting the folks doing things differently by doing things together!

Speakers: Christina Henatsch (Kultursaat, Germany), Arzeena Hamir (Amara Farm, BC), Owen Taylor (TrueLove Seeds, Pennsylvania)

We’ll be talking about seed co-ops and community seed growing models: how they work, who are involved, and their benefits and challenges. We’ll focus on the cultures and the humans behind the seeds. Who’s doing the work? How are decisions made? What happens when farmers and breeders stop working separately and start collaborating? Whether you’re already deeply invested in the world of seeds, or you’re just curious, come be inspired by folks doing things differently!