Deployment issues and genetic diversity in tree breeding
Last updated on May 8, 2024Genetic variation is necessary for healthy commercial forest tree plantations. Seedlots registered for use on Crown land must meet a threshold value to maintain diversity across the landscape. A lack of diversity could leave plantations vulnerable to current or future threats, both biotic (e.g. pests) and abiotic (e.g. drought, climate change).
Government researchers from British Columbia developed technical standards that would reflect the best available information on an acceptable minimum level of genetic diversity for reforestation seedlots. The Chief Forester’s Standards for Seed Use still maintain these technical recommendations.
The following report is a synthesis of the research conducted on genetic diversity in forests:
Simulation model
Results from a simulation model to minimize risk for both known and unknown future pest threats:
Seed use standards
Contact information
Send your inquiry to a key contact from the forest genetics research program