Objective:
To provide a framework to exchange knowledge and aid in the conservation and regeneration of maize like that found in the Hustecas region in Mexico, to monitor populations and collect Tripsicum species in Mexico and to regenerate or collect from the wild seed from maize, Tripsicum and Teosinte accessions.

Approach:
Recognizing the importance to humanity of protecting and conserving native plant genetic resources in the Centers of Diversity for present and future generations, this research will support the monitoring and collections of populations of maize and maize relatives so the genetic resources in these populations are conserved. Seed collected during this research, as well as previously collected seed, will be regenerated so they are available for distribution through the International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT). Samples of the collections regenerated as part of this research will be sent to the National Center for Genetic Resources Preservation (NCGRP) for security back-up. This research will benefit U.S. agriculture by ensuring that wild relatives of corn are conserved and available for use.