CONSERVATION AND MANAGEMENT OF FOREST GENETIC RESOURCES

Abstract

The paper reviews available strategies for the conservation, management, enhancement and sustainable utilisation of forest genetic resources, and the linkages of genetic conservation with the management of forests, tree improvement and breeding. International co-operation, co-ordination of efforts and possible future strategies of action are briefly mentioned. The paper concludes that efforts to conserve and enhance forest genetic resources for present-day and future uses must be based on the "tripod" of management of protected areas, the management of productive forests, and the management of breeding populations. It stresses that the key to success will lie in the development of programmes which harmonise conservation and sustainable utilisation of forest genetic resources within a mosaic of land use options, including a strong element of active gene management.