National Program 301, Plant, Microbial, and Insect Genetic Resources, Genomics, and Genetic Improvement, is divided into three components:  Genetic Resource Management (conserving a broad spectrum of genetic resources and facilitating their use in genetic improvement and scientific research); Genomic Characterization and Genetic Improvement (including molecular marker analyses, nucleotide sequencing, gene mapping, comparative and, to a limited extent, functional genomics, plant breeding, and genetic enhancement); and Genome Databases and Bioinformatics (developing new software tools for analyzing and managing genomic and genetic resource information and delivering the former via databases implemented on up-to-date computer networks).  Together, these components are yielding breakthroughs in understanding genome composition, manipulating genetic material, and providing genetically diverse gene pools with sustained and enhanced agricultural value.  During 2002, this program produced many important discoveries and advances.  Some of these are described below, grouped by program component.