Forest genetic resources are the foundation of healthy, resilient forests. They hold the key to how trees adapt to environmental change, support biodiversity, and sustain communities and economies. Yet these resources face growing threats—from habitat loss to climate pressures—at a time when they are more valuable than ever. Through our projects, we work to conserve and manage this genetic diversity, ensuring that breeding programs, restoration efforts, and sustainable development have the resources they need today and for generations to come.
Mission: To generate and share knowledge that is crucial for the conservation and sustainable use of North American forest genetic resources to the benefit of present and future generations.
The FGRWG was established by the NAFC in 1961 and held its inaugural meeting in 1965 as the Working Group on Forest Tree Improvement. It became the Working Party on Forest Tree Improvement in 1966, and was changed to the Study Group on Tree Improvement by the NAFC in 1970. In 1993 the name was changed by vote of the delegates to Forest Genetic Resources Working Group and approved by the NAFC to better reflect the group's long-term focus.
Research, guidelines, and tools that advance the conservation and sustainable use of forest genetic resources in a changing climate.
Reforestation guidelines for Abies religiosa and Pinus pseudostrobus in the face of climate change.
Photo: Assisted migration of Abies religiosa, planted at 3800 m of elevation, beyond its upper natural altitudinal limit, at Nevado de Toluca, State of México
The Climate Smart Restoration Tool is an interactive web application that helps land managers match seed sources to planting sites based on current and future climate conditions, aiding ecosystem restoration under climate change
Oaxaca city, Mexico
June 10-14,2024.
