2011 Research Highlights
Assessing Genetic Variation of Forest Tree Species at Risk
Research assists in management and conservation decision making
Many forest tree species and populations face serious threats to their long-term viability, most seriously from insect and disease infestation and from the effects of climate change. To conserve the genetic foundation tree species need to survive and adapt in the face of these threats, forest management decisions must consider how genetic diversity is distributed across species’ ranges. An EFETAC cooperating scientist from North Carolina State University (NCSU) is the lead analyst for two range-wide genetic variation studies of species with large distributions: eastern hemlock, which is being decimated by an exotic insect, and ponderosa pine, a species with isolated populations of special concern given their susceptibility to climate change, development, and bark beetles.
Preliminary results from both studies are already influencing management decisions. Characterization of the genetic diversity and structure of the eastern hemlock species is guiding NSCU-based Camcore conservation cooperative’s seed collections from genetically significant eastern hemlock populations. As the ponderosa pine study uncovers evolutionary relationships among species varieties and assesses genetic variation of several small and isolated populations, the Bureau of Land Management is utilizing results for management activities in the western United States. The Forest Service’s National Forest System will also use study results to help guide gene conservation and seed transfer strategies.
Contact: Kevin Potter, North Carolina State University cooperating scientist, (919) 549-4071, kevin.potter@usda.gov
