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Centre for Forest Conservation Genetics at UBC July, 2001 The Centre for Forest Conservation Genetics (CFCG) has been established in the University of BC Department of Forest Sciences with funding from Forest Renewal BC and the Forest Genetics Council of B.C. (FGC). The CFCG will bring together expertise on forest genetics and conservation to explore issues in gene conservation, develop conservation strategies, evaluate needed versus current levels of protection of genetic diversity, and carry out fundamental research on genetic diversity in native species. The Centre will also advise the FGC on specific matters relating to the conservation of genetic diversity in British Columbia’s forests. CFCG projects underway include developing a forest gene conservation strategy and framework for B.C., investigating genetic diversity and degree of inbreeding in whitebark pine, and developing sampling strategies for conservation of rare alleles. Projects to be started in the coming year:
Lodgepole Pine Pollen Management Workshop July, 2001 About 30 people attended a Lodgepole pine pollen management workshop, led by Dr. Joe Webber, in Vernon, on March 7/8, 2001. The workshop included a general discussion of the role of pollen in seed orchard production, and methods of applying pollen. The rationale for using specific pollen testing procedures (viability assays) was stressed along with recommendations for incorporating pollen testing in both breeding and orchard programs.
Seed Planning and Policy Workshop July, 2001 Tree improvement/forest genetics workshops were held in Nelson, Prince George, and Smithers in 2000 and 2001. Forest regions, forest districts, licensees, and forestry consultants were represented. These workshops provided a brief history and overview of forest genetics, seed transfer guidelines, seed supply and production, and gene conservation in British Columbia. The workshops were organized by Diane Gertzen and facilitated by Dave Trotter. Jack Woods gave an overview of Tree Improvement in B.C. Barry Jaquish discussed Interior Spruce, Western Larch and Interior Douglas-fir programs. Mike Carlson gave presentations on the Lodgepole Pine program, gene conservation, diversity and genetic worth. Ron Planden presented on tree improvement, seed maps and future seed access. Mike Madill, Anna Monetta and Gerry Pinkerton discussed regional seed supply and Tim Lee gave a presentation about provincial seed orchard development and seed production. Eric Wong provided a presentation on the impact of the seed orchard program on timber flow in the Arrow TSA.
Alberta Forest Genetics Resource Council July, 2001 The Alberta Forest Genetics Resource Council (AFGRC), formed in the spring of 2000, advises the provincial Minister of Environment and the forestry community on policy and regulation related to managing the gene resources of Alberta’s forests. The Council’s goal is to establish a solid foundation for managing forest genetic resources including the operational delivery of tree improvement programs in the context of sustainable forest management. The goal focuses on four themes: genetic gain, adaptation, genetic diversity, and conservation. The 13-member Council includes scientific experts, policy makers, and practitioners from the scientific community, forest industry, biological sector, and provincial government. Given the increasing number of players in tree improvement programs, the creation of the AFGRC is most timely to ensure strong coordination, cooperation, and communication. The Alberta government has funded the operation of the Council to date. For more information, contact Cliff Smith (csmith@compusmart.ab.ca) or check the AFGRC website at http://www.gov.ab.ca/env/forests/fmd/genetics/index.html .
www.fgcouncil.ca © Forest Genetics Council of BC, 2011 |
Centre for Forest Conservation Genetics at UBC Lodgepole Pine Pollen Management Workshop Seed Planning and Policy Workshop Alberta Forest Genetics Resource Council
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