Objectives:

• To evaluate growth potential and adaptation of select second-generation full-sib families.
• To provide a test population from which to select parents for second-generation seed orchards and third-generation breeding..

Experimental Design:

Treatments:

Based on the results of the open-pollinated progeny trials for the East Kootenay Selection Unit (E.P. 670.02.03), the families were ranked on 15 year growth performance (height and diameter) and weevil resistance. The top 50% of the parents were included in the second generation testing program. These parents were mated in a disconnected partial diallel mating scheme with four parents per diallel. Selfs were also produced whenever possible.

In addition to the East Kootenay crosses, 15 full-sib families from each of the Prince George, Prince Rupert, and Eastern North America second-generation test populations were included. 160 crosses were tested. Seedlings were grown at the Pacific Regeneration Technologies, Vernon Nursery in 1996.

Layout:

• 3 farm-field sites; randomized complete block design with 4 replicate blocks.
• In each replication, crosses were represented by one 25-tree square plot (5 by 5 trees) at 1 metre spacing.
• The first seedling of each plot is marked with a wooden stake bearing a metal tag identifying the block and the family.

History:

• 1997 plantation establishment and maintenance.
• 1998 plantation maintenance.
• 1999 Third year measurements
• 2000 Maintenance, weeding and irrigation
• 2001 Maintenance

Status:
Active

Reports and Publications:
None to date.