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Society of Commercial Seed Technologists
| Dear AOSA & SCST Members, I would like to share Ernest Allen’s write-up to ISTA regarding Dr. Payne’s legacy (Weekly Newsletter). Dr. Payne passed away on June 26, 2025. However, his family did not hold a memorial service until recently since one of his favorite holidays is Halloween. Dr. Payne meant so much to AOSA, SCST and here at the Division. He became a key leader and well known in our seed industry. Sincerely, Lan Chi Trinh, CSA Regulatory Manager Science & Technology Program | Seed Regulatory and Testing Division |
| Condolences In Memoriam: Dr. Richard C. Payne (1943 – 2025) The global seed science community mourns the loss of Dr. Richard C. Payne who passed away on June 26, 2025. A visionary leader whose pioneering work shaped seed testing protocols both domestically and internationally, Dr. Payne’s legacy is one of enduring excellence and profound influence. Dr. Payne’s distinguished career began in 1975 when he joined the USDA’s Seed Regulatory and Testing Branch (SRTB) as a plant physiologist. He immediately made his mark by developing and standardizing groundbreaking laboratory testing procedures to distinguish between varieties of agricultural and vegetable species—a critical foundation of seed science. His expertise propelled him to Laboratory Supervisor in 1982, a role that ushered him onto the international stage. Representing the USDA at the International Seed Testing Association (ISTA), Dr. Payne’s leadership was quickly recognized. As Chairman of the ISTA Variety Committee, he spearheaded the first major revision of the seminal Testing for Genuineness of Cultivar handbook in 1993, a pivotal contribution that harmonized global standards. In 1999, Dr. Payne was appointed Chief of SRTB, where he provided overarching administration for the USDA’s regulatory, laboratory, and outreach programs. In this capacity, he became a central figure for the domestic seed industry, earning numerous honors from the Association of Official Seed Analysts/Society of Commercial Seed Technologists (AOSA/SCST), the American Seed Trade Association (ASTA), the Association of American Seed Control Officials (AASCO), the Association of Official Seed Certifying Agencies (AOSCA), and others for his decades of dedicated service to the seed industry. Dr. Payne’s intellect, dedication, and leadership fundamentally guided the course of seed science. While he will be deeply missed, his foundational contributions continue to ensure the quality, integrity, and security of the world’s seed supply. |