Conservation of drug-producing plant genetic resources in an active germplasm bank. In August 1983 a project began at the National Genetic Resources Center (CENARGEN) in Brasília, Brazil , to establish an Active Germplasm Banl of drug-producing plants. This Bank seeks the permanent conservation of important species as well as basic research on biological aspects related to plant improvement. A living plant collection at presen occupies an area of 6,000m2 , which will be expanded as needed, and now contains over 200 accessions. The species being conserved are those used as home remedies by the population of the Distrito Federal, and it will also conserve 10-20 of th most important species of each of the five geographical regions of Brazil, as well as ca. 20 species introduced from other countries. The field collection is being studied to provide basic information and material for distribution to research centers specializing in pharmacological, agronomic and other related research. Information being collected includes reproductive biology an seed technology. Standard germplas, routines for documentation, registration, cleaning, quarantining an packaging of seeds are being used. It is expected that this Active Germplasm Banl will becomen a model for others that must be created elsewhere in Brazil so that the disappearance of important drug-producing plant species can be avoided.