NPGS GRIN-Global FAQs

NPGS - USDA's National Plant Germplasm System

Note: Many genebanks worldwide use the GRIN-Global database and software. To access USDA's NPGS GRIN-Global site, use the URL https://npgsweb.ars-grin.gov/gringlobal/search

This help page contains details and link specific to NPGS.

• What is the USDA Distribution Policy? (Who may request germplasm?)

• Is the Germplasm Free to the Requester?

• Determining Order Status and Tracking Orders (NPGS) FAQs

• Accessing the GRIN Collections

• Determining Plant Variety Protection (PVP) Information The Plant Variety Protection Office (PVPO) publishes the status of Plant Variety Protection Applications on a monthly basis.

 

USDA Distribution Policy

NPGS germplasm is not available for individual, home, or community gardening, or for home schooling or K-12 public or private school projects.

The NPGS distributes plant germplasm to professional plant breeders and other career research scientists. Requests from producers will be considered individually, when NPGS germplasm is not readily available from commercial sources. Requests for educational purposes are usually considered only from college/university faculty and students when NPGS material is integral to the project. Educational requests submitted by students should be accompanied by an endorsement from a sponsoring faculty. Any requestor may be required to provide additional information about their order, including a detailed explanation of intended purpose and proof of affiliation or professional status.

See also: Who May Request Germplasm

 

Are there any charges for NPGS Germplasm?

The USDA's National Plant Germplasm System (NPGS), distributes all germplasm for free. However, when requesting from the USDA NPGS, when completing the shopping cart instructions, a requester can provide their shipping information (and incur the shipping expense).

Note that GRIN-Global is a germplasm management system used by many organizations around the world. Each organization will have its own respective cost structure. Check with the organization (genebank) distributing the germplasm.

 

Other Genebanks Using GRIN-Global

In addition to USDA's NPGS, other GG genebanks can be accessed via the GG Sites option at:
https://www.grin-global.org/