Irish minister of state Mary Wallace has launched a COFORD (National Council for Forest Research and Development) report on the conservation and development of Ireland’s forest genetic resources.
“Sustaining and Developing Ireland’s Forest Genetic Resources – An Outline Strategy” recommends the establishment of a National Forest Genetic Resources Advisory Group and targeting a list of tree species for investment and improvement.
“Forest genetic resources are fundamental to everything in commercial forestry in Ireland and in conserving our native trees and forests,” said the minister.
“Good quality genetic material is vital for the grower and landowner – it provides the right start for farmers and others getting involved in forestry and will bring rewards in higher yields and better quality timber.”
The publication is available at www.coford.ie
