Field inspection applications must be submitted to NDSSD, identifying the field(s) to be inspected along with an agronomic description of the plant and seed. Products will be accepted as described.

Field inspection will be performed by NDSSD using the same field sampling system used for certified seed production. General field conditions will be reported along with other information requested by the customer. The genetic standards for QA production will be the AOSCA genetic standards for the Certified class of seed of the crop being inspected.

Post harvest samples must be submitted to NDSSD and tested for varietal purity, germination and physical purity. The varietal purity standard shall be the AOSCA genetic standards for the Certified class of seed of the crop being tested.

QA labels will be available from NDSSD for seed meeting the QA field and laboratory guidelines for genetic purity. Official labels are green in color and have printed on them the QA logo (a registered trademark), the phrase “Quality Assurance”, and “Member of the Association of Official Seed Certifying Agencies”. The QA label will be imprinted with kind, variety, brand, blend, or hybrid designation. The label will also contain a lot number and may contain a producer number. Analysis information may be printed on the label upon request. The QA logo may be used by having it printed directly on seed bags or other documents.
The QA program may be used for “blends” with the following stipulations:

• All seed used in QA blends must come from fields inspected under the QA program.
• Prior to blending, all components of the blend must have met QA field and seed guidelines.
• The minimum percentages of components in a QA blend shall be the same as for certified blends.
• Representative samples of QA blends as offered for sale must be submitted to NDSSD for seed analysis.
• Bulk seed movement and sales guidelines shall be the same as for certified seed.
• Approved conditioner guidelines (if applicable) shall be the same as for certified seed.

Eligibility Requirements

• Customer eligibility for participation in the QA program is determined by the certifying agency.
• Product eligibility
  
  1. Products initially entering the QA program must have a statement of origin signed by the applicant.
  2. Products must also be accompanied by an adequate plant and seed description enabling NDSSD to make accurate and reliable field and seed evaluations. The description will be kept on file.
  3. All seed must be labeled by variety name according to state seed laws and identified with brand designations.
  4. Public varieties currently marketed as certified seed are not eligible to be labeled under the QA program unless authorization is given by the originating institution.