ABSTRACT
In the state of Oaxaca, Mexico, ten community seed banks have been in operation since 2005. The main objective of these seed banks is in-situ conservation of the plant genetic diversity present in small farm plots as a strategy to address climate change and improve maize, bean and squash crops and general productivity at the farm level. Training in various areas is provided periodically as part of the bank's strategy for conserving and improving native seed. Producers select a president, secretary and treasurer to manage each community seed bank. The duties of these officials include seed exchange and renewal, guaranteeing conservation of seed stocks, convening meetings and acting as liaison with the institution leading the project. One of the challenges faced by the community seed banks is sustainability, once government support is no longer available. Community seed banks in Oaxaca should be part of a national strategy for in-situ conservation of Mexico's plant genetic resources.
