The need to determine which species are invasive and how to deal with them is the reason for the existence of the National Invasive Species Council in Washington, D.C. It was established by the Executive Order #13112 of February 3, 1999. Which species should go on an invasive or a state "Noxious Weed List" is a question that has consumed many hours of discussion with government officials. The latest issue involves both the state and federal governments who are entering the business of production of wildflower seed and competing with private industry. The American Seed Trade Association has taken an active role in almost all of these issues in recent years, especially because they also affect the large grass seed sector of the industry.

Some of the key challenges involve keeping up with all the diverse markets that use wildflower seed, including the many niche markets. Providing the personnel just to address all these small markets is difficult and the cost of travel to all the customers becomes prohibitive. Maintaining profitability in a maturing, highly competitive market is a challenge. Thirty years of increasing competition has done much to make the wildflower business like any other developed market. Shorter margins have forced everyone to become smarter and more efficient. Sadly, sometimes seed quality suffers in the ensuing "seed war" inherent in commodity items.

Adding new, native wildflower species is one opportunity that is always there, because ecologists and environmentalists always request more species that will perform well in specific climates and geographical regions. However, producing regional items at low prices is an ongoing challenge. Highway departments are a source of large bids, especially when their budgets are flush, with the contract going to the lowest bidder. Other governmental business comes from the Park Service, Forest Service, and city, county and state landscaping projects.

Finding just the right climate to produce each crop that will provide a high yield of good quality seed creates opportunity for any ambitious wildflower seed producer. Balancing these requirements or criteria with the demand for locally grown seed can be a real challenge. Which side of the market does the industry try to satisfy - low cost or locally grown seed?

(to Jack Bodger's answer)