Software Details
Related Posts
CBI Contact
CBI Authors + Contributors
Map-based tools that support the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) of USDA and other land-based conservation and restoration programs in the U.S
USDA contracted the Conservation Biology Institute (CBI) to design and build a free online easy-to-use Plant and Vendor finder to support the producers associated with the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP). However, the tool is not limited to the CRP program and can serve the needs of any land stewardship effort requiring native seeds/seedlings. In partnership with the Institute for Applied Ecology (IAE) we have added features to address the needs of the Native Seed Network and significantly expanded the native seed customer and vendor base.
The seed and vendor finder can be found here: Plant and Vendor Finder
Currently, CBI has seeded the tool with 214 vendors found through an online search from across the country with limited profiles, and 45 have voluntarily completed full profiles which includes their plant catalogue. The tool is designed for easy uploading of their profile and inventory. It also provides an opportunity for vendors without a website to have an online presence and be found by customers looking for seeds.
The map-based Plant Finder tool allows you to easily find plants suitable for your location that meet particular growing conditions (e.g., ecological sites, soil conditions, moisture requirements, and specific environmental tolerances) as well as provide specific benefits (e.g., livestock browse, wildlife habitat, and pollinator support). Once a species list is generated, the Vendor Match tool identifies where seeds and/or seedlings from your species list can be purchased. The Vendor Browse tool allows you to easily browse a map view of the registered vendors in your state or across the country where seeds and seedlings can be purchased.
All data content is from authoritative sources, including NRCS state resources, NRCS Ecological Site program, and the USDA PLANTS database.
The vendor match and browse tools have been updated in partnership with the Institute for Applied Ecology (IAE)for the Native Seed Network. Note that IAE uses its legacy name `Seed Finder tool’ for what is essentially the same as the USDA Plant and Vendor finder tool.