such as evaluation or regeneration, should be considered in addition to published papers. Alternatively, the ARS could create a separate category for germplasm scientists that allows for open-ended promotion, but with evaluation guidelines more appropriate to the work of germplasm maintenance and research. The potential to structure a staff appointment to devote a percentage of time to basic research (e.g., 80 percent for service activities and 20 percent for research) should not be overlooked.

The National Plant Germplasm System should develop clear, concise goals and policies that encompass the conservation of plant genetic resources that reflect the world's biological diversity and crop resources of immediate use to scientists and breeders.

Efforts are needed to expand some collections to make them more representative of the available diversity. Assessments of collection completeness must give due regard to the inclusion of close wild relatives and non-crop-related species, which may possess useful genes. National policy should include endangered species of native and exotic taxa and should not be limited to crop genetic resources.

Plans for collecting should include consideration of the range of ecogeographical areas where accessions originate, how broad based or narrow the collection is in terms of known or suspected genetic traits, and what genes might be obtained through various transect or other sampling procedures when rare alleles are sought. These factors must be weighed against cost, accuracy, need, and other criteria for obtaining suitable materials.

Specifically, definitions and plans are needed for

• Developing a long-term policy, periodically reviewed and revised, that states what genetic resources will be acquired and how to cooperate with foreign germplasm banks and with U.S. collections that are not formally part of the NPGS.

• Assessing NPGS collections and developing priorities to ensure they sample adequately the genetic diversity for the species.

• Replenishing seed stocks, with the help of international collaboration where appropriate.

• Characterizing and evaluating the germplasm held in collections. This information will facilitate wider use of germplasm and make possible more efficient management.

• Accelerating the adoption of modern technologies for the maintenance and characterization of germplasm.

Front Matter (R1-R16)

Executive Summary (1-20)

1 Managing Crop Genetic Resources (21-42)

2 Elements of the National Plant Germplasm System (43-86)

3 Administration of the National System (87-106)

4 Prescription for Effectiveness (107-144)

References (145-148)

Glossary (149-153)

Abbreviations (154-155)

Authors (156-160)

Index (161-173)