Native Seed Banks, Garden's Edge

	Native Seed Banks Community Seed Bank – Qachuu Aloom has started a community seed bank to buy, sell, and trade local seed varieties in threat of extinction. Farmers take out seeds for their fields on loan, returning them upon harvest. The Association also purchases seed production surplus from its members, allowing farmers to make a profit out of their seed production – a previously unheard of notion. There is only one other small project in Guatemala offering native organic seeds varieties, and the demand for this service in the local and national sphere is growing rapidly. In fact, selling native seeds has become one of the Association’s most profitable endeavors! Participation in national and international seed fairs – Attending fairs throughout Guatemalan and abroad is an empowering experience for participants. It opens the door to new markets, creates alliances with other community groups, and helps educate the public about the importance of preserving native seed varieties.

Native Seed Banks

Community Seed Bank – Qachuu Aloom has started a community seed bank to buy, sell, and trade local seed varieties in threat of extinction. Farmers take out seeds for their fields on loan, returning them upon harvest.

The Association also purchases seed production surplus from its members, allowing farmers to make a profit out of their seed production – a previously unheard of notion. There is only one other small project in Guatemala offering native organic seeds varieties, and the demand for this service in the local and national sphere is growing rapidly. In fact, selling native seeds has become one of the Association’s most profitable endeavors!

Participation in national and international seed fairs – Attending fairs throughout Guatemalan and abroad is an empowering experience for participants. It opens the door to new markets, creates alliances with other community groups, and helps educate the public about the importance of preserving native seed varieties.

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