A Gathering of Stewards: Our 50th Anniversary Celebration

On August 8–9, 2025, more than 500 people from across the nation gathered at Heritage Farm in Decorah, Iowa, for an unforgettable celebration. They came to mark Seed Savers Exchange’s 50th anniversary—five decades of preserving the seeds that feed us, connect us to our past, and hold the keys to our future.

A Gathering Like No Other

For two extraordinary days, the farm hummed with energy as gardeners, farmers, educators, and seed enthusiasts from 32 states explored ideas that matter: seed sovereignty, low-water gardening techniques, native seeds and pollinators, and practical how-tos on everything from launching community seed libraries to growing desert-adapted heirlooms in home gardens.

The diversity of attendees reflected the breadth of the seed-saving movement itself. Among them were Haley and Matthew McKinnon, who journeyed from Waimanolo, O’ahu, Hawaii. Haley and Matthew run Ahiki Acres, where they grow nutrient-dense, fast-yielding crops specifically chosen to combat the high rates of food insecurity plaguing their island community—proving that seed saving is about far more than preservation. It’s also about feeding people right now.

Haley shared insights from their experience attending the 50th-anniversary celebration.

Q: What’s something you learned from attending the event?

A: I learned that through seedkeeping we can cultivate resilience and empower our communities.

Q: Was there a particular workshop or speaker you connected with?

A: I really enjoyed listening to the talks presented by Linda Black Elk and Sean Sherman that highlighted Indigenous seed knowledge and reconnecting with Indigenous foods. As a Native Hawaiian, I found many similarities between our communities, and I was inspired to hear about all the work they are doing to fight for food sovereignty.

Q: What inspired you to attend?

A: We were planning to visit our mentor, Jay Bost, in North Carolina, and he asked if we wanted to join him at the celebration. The timing worked out perfectly. I have been passionate about seedkeeping ever since I began farming in 2019 so I was stoked to have the opportunity to attend.

Q: What lasting impressions did you take from the event? How does this influence the work you do?

A: The event helped reignite my passion for seedkeeping. As a full-time market gardener, it’s difficult finding time for seedkeeping, but attending this event reminded me about the importance of seedkeeping and why I need to make it a priority. It was refreshing to be surrounded by so many people who share similar interests and values. I was also inspired to find out what seeds and foods were meaningful to my ancestors as a way to learn more about my heritage. I’ve found so much joy talking with family members and sharing stories.

Education Meets Celebration

The conference struck a perfect balance between learning and joy. Attendees dove deep into pressing topics like climate adaptation and Indigenous seed knowledge, while also celebrating the grassroots movement that has protected thousands of heirloom varieties over half a century. Workshops offered hands-on skills, speakers shared hard-won wisdom, and conversations sparked new collaborations and friendships throughout.

The Power of Community

The expertise shared in the stunning Heritage Farm setting was remarkable, but what made this gathering truly special was the palpable sense of community and shared purpose. From Hawaii to the Heartland, people recognized they’re part of something bigger: a living network of seed savers ensuring that future generations inherit not only seeds, but also the knowledge, culture, resilience, and biodiversity those seeds represent.

As Seed Savers Exchange looks toward the next 50 years, this gathering proved one thing beyond doubt: the movement is thriving, growing, and more vital than ever.

Thanks to our sponsors and the Iowa Arts Council for their support of the event.

Take a look at the event scrapbook filled with photos and artwork created at the celebration!