In 1974, n an attempt to bring order to the loosely structured state/federal new-crops research program, the National Plant Germplasm System (NPGS) was established under the USDA’s Agricultural Research Service (ARS). The NPGS is collaborative effort to safeguard the genetic diversity of agriculturally important plants.

The NPGS is managed by the ARS. Funding for the NPGS comes primarily through Congressional appropriations. However, the NPGS is a partnership between the public and private sectors. Many NPGS genebanks are located at state land-grant university sites, which contribute lab, office, greenhouse and field space for operations, as well as staff for technical and support services.

The private sector is a major user of the NPGS collections and is the primary means by which new and improved plants are commercialized.