Seeds—and their stories—require attention and care to survive. There are countless varieties that are sustained solely by one individual or a single seed company that are at risk of being lost forever if the company closes its doors, or the individual lacks a successor to continue their work. With the genetic diversity among food crops at only a fraction of what it was only a generation ago, the continued survival of these seeds on the precipice is critical. Freed Seed is a resource for people and communities seeking support in ensuring the future of varieties with uncertain or compromised future care.

As we broaden the scope of our work, seeds keep finding us, and it’s of absolute importance that our role in the preservation of each variety brought into our care be adaptable to a myriad of circumstances. Our role in preservation can range from providing safe, long-term storage for seeds, to continuing to grow and adapt seed in collaboration with their communities or original growers in a sustained relationship.