The Operational Tree Improvement sub-program
of the Forest Genetics Council (FGC) focuses
on increasing the quality and quantity
of Class A or Select Seed produced from
existing forest-company and MFLNRO orchards.
It also provides technical support in
developing operational efficiencies
and protocols to improve orchard production
and management, including pest management.
Funding is made available through an
annual call-for-proposals that is issued
in early December. Technical committees
are set-up to review proposals and approval
is given in April to successful applicants.
Priorities and eligible activities are
determined by species committees who
annually review activities needed to
move individual species plans forward
and that are consistent with the overall
objectives of the FGC.
Priority will be given to proposals
that:
- address the needs and priorities
identified in the Council's species
plans
- are consistent with the objectives
of the Forest Genetics Council and
general funding principles
- are aimed at producing seed, propagules,
or other genetically selected material
for species or areas where current
supplies do not meet demand
- will improve the genetic quality
of reforestation materials (e.g.,
producing custom seed lots)
- are based on requests for improved
material from users
- address critical technical needs
The program specifically focuses on opportunities for creating material of improved genetic quality, such as:
- cone induction activities
- production of custom seed lots (e.g.
controlled crosses, pollen collections)
- enhancing genetic quality of orchards
through roguing
- operational pest management activities
related to crop survival and
- technical support for improved seed
production
- activities that focus on improving
seed delivery in Lodgepole Pine*
- operational testing or implementation
of new knowledge, and operational
scale development of new technologies.
* A taskforce formed by interior
lodgepole pine producers reviewed concerns
surrounding low Pli seed production
in Okanagan seed orchards. The conclusion
of the taskforce was that priority be
given to studies and operational activities
in insect management, reproductive biology,
seed orchard culture, and environmental
studies to resolve this problem. The
Interior Technical Advisory Committee
supports these findings and proposal
reviews reflect these priorities.
