The North American Strawberry Growers Association (NASGA) was organized in 1977 and incorporated as a non-profit corporation by progressive strawberry growers and leading small fruit researchers. Their purpose was to support USDA and state/provincial research programs, develop educational seminars and publications, promote development of equipment, varieties and cultural methods to improve efficiency for the strawberry industry - including grower applied research, and promote beneficial legislation.
Today NASGA represents more than 250 members in 40 states, 10 provinces of Canada and 15 countries. NASGA continues to be a grower-based association strongly rooted in the original philosophy that ongoing research will provide knowledge to strengthen and improve strawberry production and marketing. Publications include a research journal, proceedings, and newsletter.
To accomplish this mission NASGA:
Commits 25% of dues to research (NASGA has granted over $350,000 in research dollars)
Formed a foundation to generate increased funds for research (NASGA has increased funding to more than $50,000 per year)
Sponsors an educational winter conference and publishes a newsletter for members
Organizes a summer tour to premiere berry farms throughout North America as well as tours to growing areas around the world and supports issues critical to the well-being of strawberry growers through an active legislative committee.