Content: Genetic resource management of forest trees traditionally covers three main topics: selection and breeding for genetic gain, regulating transfer of planting stock through seed transfer guidelines and seed zones, and maintaining adequate genetic diversity in breeding stock, plantations, and natural populations. The concept of adaptation is central to all three themes. On the following pages you can find information why adaptation is important for forest health and productivity, how we study adaptation in trees, how this knowledge translates into policies, and how you can implement effective management practices by understanding concepts and issues related to adaptation of trees.

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On the above pages you can learn about the following topics: 1. What is adaptation? 2. Subspecies, varieties, ecotypes, clines 3. Adaptation and forest management 4. Genetic testing with provenance trials 5. Seed zones and controlled parentage program regions, 6. Adaptation and climate change 7. Policies, practices, & what you can do 8. Research programs and publications 9. Reading material and resources:

More learning material: This self-study document was prepared for the Alberta Forest Genetics Council's on-line educational tool-kit. Please visit their website for more information like this.