Tahlee Ministries chief executive officer John Anderson said the exchange was a way to support the community in keeping ‘‘local seeds local’’.

‘‘We’re trying to encourage local communities to maintain their own seed stocks rather than utilise genetically modified seeds,’’ Mr Anderson said.

‘‘It is also a way to support the people who grow varieties of their own special pumpkins and tomatoes, to get them together and swap seeds with other growers.’’

A local exchange would be most effective as the seeds being swapped were compatible with the conditions of the area, he said.

An added benefit was the preservation of ‘‘heirloom varieties’’ of seeds, passed from generation to generation.

The exchange will take place between 1pm and 4.30pm at Tahlee Ministries, at the end of Carrington Road, North Arm Cove, on Saturday, July 19.

People wishing to take part are asked to register by June 17, to Mr Anderson on 0412311574 or Nungra Gardens’ Shane Martin on 0421 228 499.