Niger, Guizotia abyssinica (L.f.) Cass., originated in Ethiopia approximately 5,000 years ago, and since then it has been cultivated as a traditional crop. It is also widely cultivated in India and several other African and Asian nations and has been historically used as an oilseed crop. In addition, millions of pounds are annually imported into many countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada as a gourmet birdseed. The small black seed resembles that of a thistle and is often referred to as “niger thistle.”  With an aggressive annual growth habit, this member of the sunflower family has the potential to be a profitable alternative crop for the High Plains. Field trials have been used to analyze the significant factors necessary for a successful crop. Since cultivation is important for weed control, 20” is the narrowest row spacing used in the region.  Studies conducted have shown that seeding rates between 1-4lbs/acre are optimal, along with a planting depth of ½-1”. Irrigation is very important during seedling establishment because drying of the soil during emergence results in reduced stand. The plant is indeterminate in growth and is prone to shattering seed during severe weather conditions.  For these reasons, observed yields have varied between 110-1100 lbs/acre.  Depending on the quality of seed marketed, producers could receive as much as $.30-.40/lb. Since the domestication of Guizotia abyssinica is incomplete, selection is being done to make the plant more conducive to commercial seed production. The purpose of this presentation is to communicate the information gathered thus far on this crop and encourage producers to take advantage of this existing market. The generation of more production data in the future will increase the ability of growers to make informed management decisions.