Summary
The forestry sector needs to use a wider range of species to increase the resilience of our forests and woodlands to the effects of climate change and pests and diseases.
Forest Research has been commissioned by Scottish Forestry to help select a shortlist of productive tree species for Scotland, and by Defra to develop a similar shortlist for England and to identify and address gaps in evidence.
The resulting shortlists will provide a focus for action, coordinated by the UK Forest Genetic Resources Group, to encourage planting and management of the most promising species at scale across the UK.
Research Objectives
The objectives for this programme of research is to:
- develop an evaluation framework to compare the performance of different tree species, both now and in the future, using a comprehensive set of criteria (tree improvement potential, plant and seed supply, silviculture and productivity, site and climate suitability, tree health, biodiversity and environmental impacts, and timber properties and end use)
- use the framework to assess and prioritise over 60 tree species
- collaborate with experts and stakeholders to select shortlists of productive species for each country in UK, which will provide a focus for efforts by different organisations to diversify the range of tree species used in forestry
- identify the scientific evidence gaps that must be addressed to enable national deployment of shortlisted species and improve future prospects for other emerging species
- develop research and development strategies for tree improvement, silviculture and timber properties to encourage investment and collaboration with industry partners.
Partners
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Scottish Forestry -
Defra