Columbia Seeds’ strategy is to focus resources on the marketing and brand development of its varieties while facilitating the flow of seed directly from the producer to the marketplace. Using this strategy, founding members Tom Pape and Scott Harer developed a Value Direct Link between the producer and the marketplace. Columbia Seeds provides this "Value Direct Link" through a close association with top quality Pacific Northwest growers and multi-channel distribution systems. Columbia Seeds "Value Direct Link" from producer to local and world markets means tremendous value and savings for the entire grass seed industry.

Tom Pape: Pape’s thirteen years of experience in the seed industry is an extension of his lifelong roots in agriculture beginning on the family farms. He joined Lely Pacific Inc., a farm and turf equipment manufacturer, and was appointed president in 1984. He joined Seed Research of Oregon in 1992 as Vice President and General Manager. Pape has an MBA from Portland State University and is involved in many civic and industry associations.

Scott Harer: Harer has over thirteen years of turf and forage grass experience. Harer started his career in the seed industry at Olds Seed Company in Madison Wisconsin. He moved to Oregon in 1994 and recently worked as National Sales Manager for Seed Research of Oregon. Harer has an MBA from Portland State University and is actively involved with industry associations.