A: Development and standardisation of a system for genetic monitoring of forest trees
Problem: Genetic diversity ensures survival and adaptability of forest trees under changing environmental conditions and is needed to maintain the vitality of forests to cope with pests and diseases (Koskela et al. 2007). To assist conservation and management of genetic diversity of forest tree populations, thus enabling continuous adaptability of these populations to future environments, it is becoming increasingly important to monitor consequences of environmental changes and intended or unintended anthropogenic influences on populations (Konnert et al 2011). When artificial regeneration is involved, special care must be taken that the reproductive material used for planting is of a suitable provenance therefore minimising high risks and low revenues when financial terms are considered (Konnert&Behm, 2006) in addition to ensuring future adaptability.
RID target achievement: Development and standardisation of a system for genetic monitoring of forest trees to facilitate certification of forest reproductive material and implementation of concepts of dynamic conservation of forest genetic resources.

Sub-objectives:
-    A1. Development of a system for genetic monitoring of forest trees: identification of how changes in the environment (including habitat fragmentation) and silvicultural measures affect adaptability of forest tree populations - monitoring and comparisons in space and time.
-    A2. Implementation of certification of forest reproductive material (origin and quality)
-    A3. Establishment of a forest gene bank, vital component of ex situ conservation measures
Collaborative partner involved: ASP (lead by M. Konnert)


Expected outputs - protocols:
-    A1: Developed measures for adaptive forest management based on genetic forest protection
-    A2: Organization of a DNA bank for certification of forest reproductive material (FRM) in SEE
-    A3: Developed bioinformatics infrastructure to enable easy and fast access to DNA and seed samples and documentation data
-    A3: Definition of appropriate quantities and conditions for long-term storage of FRM
-    A1-3: Preparation of a long-term funding plan for the gene bank and the FRM certification system