About Us

The ‘Systems Approach’ to Bringing Plant Materials to Market

By applying our unique “Systems Aproach,” Georgia's Integrated Cultivar Release System works closely with four other agencies to streamline the marketing  and management of plant and foundation seed materials. In today’s climate of constant change, our knowledgeable experts provide vital information and access to cultivars offering higher yields, greater disease-resistance and better overall performance.

Start a conversation with any of our team members by clicking here. 

Meet Our Team

Georgia's Integrated Cultivar Release System (GICRS) is comprised of four entities;  Georgia Seed Development (GSD); the University of Georgia Research Foundation Inc. (UGARF); the UGA College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) and the Georgia Agricultural Experiment Stations; and the Georgia Crop Improvement Association (GCIA). All play important roles in this method of plant development and marketing. Our Systems Approach integrates plant breeding research, intellectual property protection, quality control and marketing to customers in Georgia and across the globe. They are responsible for protecting and licensing intellectual property, including UGA-developed plant cultivars to seed companies, nurseries, farmers and other interested parties.

By working together, these four entities advance the knowledge of plant genetics, address anti-piracy issues and ensure the very best varieties are available to satisfy increasing global demand for crop output.