Tree Improvement 101 - Module 1: Introduction to Forest Genetics and Tree Improvement
Webinar Details
When:
Apr 5, 2024 1:00 pm US/Eastern
Length: 01:00 (hh:mm)
Advance Registration NOT required.
View now on-demand.
Presenter(s):
- Carolyn "Carrie" Pike PhD - Regeneration Specialist, Reforestation, Nurseries, and Genetic Resources (RNGR) Program, USDA Forest Service - Eastern Region State, Private, and Tribal Forestry
- Kevin M Potter - Research Ecologist , Eastern Forest Environmental Threat Assessment Center of the USDA Forest Service's Southern Research Station
Virtual Event Format:
Group Viewing Available:
Module 1: The first module of this series will introduce concepts of population genetics to learn how genes are distributed across the landscape for forest trees.
We’ll also look at life history traits, traits we use for selection, and types of common gardens. We’ll also start exploring the relationship between phenotype and genotype and learn how breeding programs separate genetic and environmental effects to advance their goals.
Additional Information
Forest genetics is the study of genetic variation and inheritance in forest trees. It’s a crucial field of study as it provides the scientific basis for tree improvement and gene conservation programs.
Tree Improvement is the applied use of forest genetics concepts to enhance the quality of trees. It’s often synonymous with tree breeding, although the latter may specifically refer to activities like controlled pollination.
Here’s an introduction to the key concepts:
1. Forest Genetics: This is the study of heritable variation in forest trees. It focuses on understanding how genetic differences influence traits such as growth rate, disease resistance, and adaptability to environmental conditions.
2. Tree Improvement: This involves the application of forest genetics to improve the productivity and health of commercially important and sometimes non-commercial tree species. The goal is to produce trees with desirable traits such as faster growth, better wood quality, and increased resistance to diseases.
3. Tree Breeding: This is a specific activity within tree improvement that involves controlled pollination, selection, evaluation, and breeding of trees. The aim is to produce superior trees that exhibit the desired traits.
4. Genetic Improvement: This involves the use of various techniques to enhance the genetic quality of trees. These techniques include selection of superior trees (based on traits such as growth rate and disease resistance), controlled pollination, progeny testing, and genetic engineering.
5. Deployment of Genetically Improved Material: Once genetically improved trees are developed, they need to be deployed effectively. This involves considerations such as seed zones, genotype-environment interactions, and field testing for the establishment of plantations or for restoration (resistance breeding).
The ultimate goal of forest genetics and tree improvement is to enhance the productivity and sustainability of forests. However, it’s important to note that these improvements are realized over several decades, requiring long-term commitment.
Learn More :
• Woody Plant Seed Manual - Chapter 2: Genetic Improvement of Forest Trees (Clark W Lantz PhD)
• The Evolution of Forest Genetics and Tree Improvement Research in the United States (The Journal of Forestry)
• How does the study of Forest Genetics improve tree species? (Mississippi State Extension)
About Our Presenter(s)
https://rngr.net
https://forestthreats.org
Kevin is a landscape ecologist and conservation geneticist who applies the disciplines of landscape ecology, conservation biology and population genetics to assess and mitigate threats to tree species and forest communities, particularly across broad scales. Kevin's research work includes conservation assessments of vulnerable tree species, range-wide genetic diversity studies of tree species at risk, and broad-scale studies of the ecosystem functions associated with biodiversity.
Loading