California
has the largest and most diverse agricultural industry in the
nation, so having a research center focused on seeds just
makes sense.
California grows the majority of many
horticultural commodities produced in the US, and even for
agronomic crops such as wheat, cotton and rice, the varieties
grown here are largely bred and produced specifically in the
state. In addition, the ideal climate for seed production has
attracted breeding and seed production companies from all over
the world, and their products are distributed internationally.
Thus, the unique character of
California's agricultural industry provides many opportunities
for the SBC to contribute.