Forest Trees

News reports concerning decline of the world's forests are becoming sadly familiar. Most losses are measured in square kilometers, but a more profound loss cannot be measured. As forests disappear, so do their genetic resources. The genes they possess can no longer aid in their adaptation to a changing environment, nor can they be used to develop improved varieties or products.


This book assesses the status of the world's tree genetic resources and management efforts. Strategies for meeting future needs and alternatives to harvesting natural forests are presented. The book also outlines methods and technologies for management, evaluates activities now under way, and makes specific recommendations for a global strategy for forest management.

Table of Contents


Front Matter
Executive Summary
1 World Forests
2 Multiple Uses of Forest Trees
3 Structure of Genetic Variation
4 Conservation and Management of Tree Genetic Resources
5 Institutions Involved in Managing Tree Genetic Resources
6 Organizing a Global System of Cooperation
References
Appendix A: Forest Tree Species Used in Breeding or Testing Activities
Appendix B: Literature Survey of Threatened Provenances or Species
Appendix C: Sources of Seed for Research
Glossary
Abbreviations
Authors
Index