North Dakota Farmer Fined $60,000 for Seed Law Violations
A North Dakota farmer has faced significant penalties totaling $60,000 due to multiple violations of state and federal seed laws. This case stems from the infringement of rights belonging to seed variety owners under the Plant Variety Protection Act. The fines make it the largest seed regulatory penalty in North Dakota’s history.
Details of the Case
The farmer, identified as Thomas Shephard from Crystal, North Dakota, was found guilty during a regulatory audit conducted by the North Dakota State Seed Department. This department oversees seed regulations within the state to ensure compliance and protect variety ownership.
Violations Found
Shephard faced penalties for the unauthorized transfer of protected seed varieties. The state discovered that he had illegally planted six fields of spring wheat in the 2025 crop year. Each violation incurred the maximum penalty, culminating in the total fine of $60,000.
Statements from Officials
- Seed Commissioner Ken Bertsch emphasized the seriousness of variety protection issues, stating that a vibrant seed industry relies on compliance with laws protecting variety owner rights.
- Bertsch compared illegal seed propagation to theft, asserting that it undermines profitability for farmers reliant on new and improved crop varieties.
He noted, “Illegal propagation acts as theft of property. It adversely affects everyone involved in the seed industry, from the owner to the grower and seller.”
Regulatory Measures Going Forward
The North Dakota State Seed Department remains committed to enforcing seed laws and will continue its audits to identify violations. They will notify variety owners of any infractions discovered during these inspections, ensuring a fair and legal seed industry.
