What is Genetic Resource Management?

The health, adaptability and productivity of forests are dependant upon the structure and dynamics of their genetic foundation. The Ministry of Forests is committed to "Protect and manage public forests for the sustained benefit of all British Columbians". The area of Genetic Resource Management (GRM) seeks to understand the genetic foundation of B.C.'s public forests for the purposes of continued evolution, improvement and adaptation of forests to human and environmental demands.

Tree Improvement Branch core business functions undertake to both protect (protect, manage and improve) public land genetic assets, and to set the required standards for forest practices influencing these genetic assets.

The Branch accomplishes this through the application of GRM programs that:

Protect

	gene conservation (in situ and ex situ)
	seed quality assurance
	adaptive potential of forest trees
	genetic diversity of reforestation species
	insect and disease co-evolutionary potential with forest trees

Manage

	genetic information management for planning and compliance and enforcement
	seed transfer guidelines and seed planning units
	a policy advisory framework and provincial stakeholder group (Forest Genetics Council)
	implementation of strategic plans, communications and extension

Set Standards of Practice

	policy analysis, legislation development, results based code development
	performance standards and eligibility for GRM activities
	evaluation of genetic gain contribution to AAC determinations, and

Improve

	utilize results from tree breeding programs
	seed orchard seed production
	seed orchard pest management.

Tree Improvement Branch is not involved in any genetic engineering, gene insertion, gene splicing or biotechnology that results in genetically modified organisms. In keeping with the broad stewardship responsibilities of the Ministry of Forests for crown land, the Branch has ensured that no genetically modified tree seed has been registered or used in operational forest planting on crown land in British Columbia.