The ‘Golden Pea award’ is a recognition of those individuals that - often throughout generations - have contributed to the conservation of plant genetic resources. The award can be given to farmers, gardeners, private persons, and organizations alike. Since the first ‘Golden Pea’ was awarded in 2002, close to 50 caretakers of the green heritage have been lauded. The award is a collaboration between the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, coordinator of the national PGR Programme, and County Administrations that wish to participate. The Golden Pea award helps raise public awareness of PGR issues at the local and regional level.