The survey, which engaged a wide range of key industry stakeholders from woodland owners to forest managers, sought to understand how tree improvement is perceived and valued within the sector. The research also hinted at the need for an authoritative body to provide verified and reliable information on the topic, with many participants revealing they consult vastly different sources to learn about the field’s latest developments. Survey respondents listed a wide range of references, such as charities, nurseries, friends, colleagues, social media and Google.
Not having an authoritative source for information leads to confusion and misconceptions. For example, over a quarter (26%) of respondents had fears that tree improvement makes crops less resilient, when actually the opposite is true. And around one in four (23%) revealed that fears over costs were holding them back – when the improved yield and consistency of improved material actually leads to higher returns for businesses.
This knowledge gap is making a real impact on the wider industry as forest managers and timber manufacturers needlessly miss out on superior products. In fact, the research reveals that a lack of knowledge and data on the benefits of improved material is the most common hesitation people have with the products. Asked to share the issues that are hindering the uptake of tree improvement, the survey identified several common barriers:
- Lack of knowledge and data on the of benefits of improved material (30%)
- Narrower genetic diversity and its impact on resilience (26%)
- Cost of improved planting stock (23%)
- Lack of availability of improved material across a wide range of species (17%)
- The productive/native dynamic and a perception that policy and regulation does not support planting for productivity (13%)
On the other hand, respondents acknowledged several important advantages of tree improvement:
- Improved quality, consistency and quantity of timber (69%)
- Resilience to pest, disease and future climate (64%)
- Better establishment, vigour and growth with commensurate reduction in rotation length (43%)
- Improved financial return and economic sustainability (19%)
Other notable benefits suggested by participants include greater CO₂ capture, increased genetic diversity, and higher security of timber supply.
The research suggests that a more authoritative and accessible source of information on tree improvement is needed to help dispel myths and ensure stakeholders are better informed. The lack of clear guidance is contributing to industry hesitation, as forest managers and businesses remain unsure about the potential of improved materials.
“As an industry we must do much better at sharing the benefits of the significant improvements made through tree breeding,” said Andrew Henry, nursery director for Maelor Forest Nurseries. “There is real confusion around cost versus return which is particularly telling – with some respondents seeing price as a barrier rather than understanding the vast financial returns that improved breeding is continuing to deliver, from better timber quality, higher yields and reduced rotation times.
“As tree improvement across species becomes increasingly important in addressing challenges like climate change, pests, and disease, we need trusted industry bodies to step up and provide clear, verified information to ensure that stakeholders can make informed decisions. The forestry sector needs to advocate much better and share in a more accessible way these great results across the whole industry, investor base and our nations governments. We’re proud of the industry leading and innovative work we’re doing at Maelor to improve the resilience, quality and commercial appeal of the trees we supply for the timber crops that will be used for generations to come.”
