The FGCA is excited to announce our national Certified Seed Collector Course is now available.
The FGCA has made many improvements and additions to the course including:
- Self-paced, fully virtual experience improving accessibility
- Updated content
- National perspective
- Availability in French (coming 2027)
The Certified Seed Collector (CSC) course introduces participants to seed collection practices and theory. This training focuses on native woody plant seed collection, but basic principles and best practices can be applied more broadly. *This course does not specifically address herbaceous species.
In this course we cover:
- What it takes to be a seed collector
- Basic tree and seed identification
- Restoration, reforestation, afforestation and how this relates to the seed industry in Canada
- Flower and seed biology
- Genetic principles relating to seed and stand quality
- Best practices for collecting high-quality seed
- Physiological seed quality testing methods (cut tests, maturity indicators, insect and disease assessments)
- Forecasting and collection methods
- Source documentation critical for future forest resilience
- Best practices for handling to ensure seed remains high quality from collection, to processing, up to storage and use
- Tools and strategies to communicate with and create a relationship with buyers, growers, processors and land managers
- And more!
Course Requirements
To become certified, participants must successfully:
- Review of all course materials (images, videos, slide decks, etc.)
- Sign the Certified Seed Collector’s Code of Ethics
- Complete self-led practical in-field assignment*
- Provide contact information for ongoing certification management
- Complete the final exam
*The self-led in-field assignment will require transportation to assess various sites locally. Although not required, it is recommended that participants purchase a pair of hand pruners/secateurs to practice their new knowledge and skills learned throughout the course.
If you had intended on joining the waitlist for Custom Group Training opportunities, click HERE to be directed to the appropriate page.
Certified Seed Collector Course Waitlist Application
Filling out the following form will add you to the Certified Seed Collector Course waitlist. Individuals will be contacted with details on how to register when course registration becomes available. Once course registration is complete, details will be provided on how to access the online learning platform.
Course registration will only be available for a limited time and will accept a limited number of individuals at a time. The course will run for 6 weeks and all certification requirements must be met within this timeframe to receive certification.
The course will have two intake periods per year. Upcoming available courses:
| Fall 2026 Cohort |
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| Registration for fall cohort opens in August. Courses begin in October 2026. |
| Course Fee: $ 595 +HST |
| Spring 2027 Cohort |
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| Registration for spring cohort opens early spring. Courses begin in the summer of 2027. |
| Course Fee: $ 595+HST |
*Dates listed are tentative until official registration opens and are subject to change. We have provided rough dates to allow participants to plan and commit time ahead of taking the course.