New Mexico State University’s Master Gardeners program volunteers in Bernalillo and Sandoval counties are partnering with the Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance to begin the Sandia Seed Stewards project with a seed saving school on Friday and Saturday, June 14-15. (Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance photo)ALBUQUERQUE – Seed stewardship is an ancient tradition passed on from generation to generation to save regionally adapted seeds.

New Mexico State University’s Master Gardeners program volunteers in Bernalillo and Sandoval counties are partnering with the Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance to inspire gardeners to join in the tradition through the Sandia Seed Stewards project.

“Through this effort impassioned individuals contribute to create more resilient, healthy and sustainable communities through seed saving,” said Lynda Garvin, NMSU Extension agricultural agent in Sandoval County. 

“To participate in this program, Seed Stewards will commit to grow, save and share seeds within their community from at least one plant variety, including heritage varieties, native and pollinator plants, edible vegetables, herbs and flowers,” said Sara Moran, NMSU Extension horticulture agent in Bernalillo County. 

Saving seeds from red chile peppers is a way for families to keep their favorite New Mexico tradition alive. New Mexico State University’s Master Gardeners in Bernalillo and Sandoval counties will host a seed saving school Friday and Saturday, June 14-15, to kick off the Sandia Seed Stewards project. (NMSU photo)To gain these skills, a two-day seed school will be held Friday and Saturday, June 14-15, at the NMSU Bernalillo County Extension office, 1510 Menaul Blvd. NW in Albuquerque. 

The Friday training from 5:30 to 8 p.m. will include the movie “Seed: The Untold Story.” Training will continue on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

“Participants will learn basic seed biology, seed selection, genetics, germination, seed harvest, cleaning and storage,” Garvin said.

“The Seed Stewards will ensure their seeds are carefully grown, skillfully selected for saving and securely stored,” Moran said. “As community seed leaders, they are also encouraged to be involved with the distribution or sharing of seeds through local seed libraries and exchanges.”

Cost for the two-day school is $45, which includes class material, lunch and snacks. To register online visit https://rsvp.nmsu.edu/rsvp/sandiaseed.

For additional information contact Garvin at 505-977-9574 or lgarvin@nmsu.edu; or Moran at 505-243-1386 or samoran@nmsu.edu