Tree planting programs have been a major part of forestry and conservation since modern land management began. Reforestation and restoration projects yield better air and water quality, enhanced wildlife habitat, greater biodiversity and ecosystem sustainability, healthier forests, reduced soil erosion, and increased timber production. With the adoption of the Forest Service National Native Plants Policy and the growing activity and interest shown by other agencies and organizations in ecosystem restoration and sustainability, planting programs are the subject of renewed interest. Demand for native species, each having its own cultural and site requirements, has risen dramatically, as have requests for information about how to propagate, store, ship, and plant native species. 

Relevant expertise and research within the Forest Service, universities, and other organizations is hard pressed to adequately address this increasing need for reliable, scientifically sound information. Reforestation, Nurseries, and Genetic Resources (RNGR) fills this need by providing a searchable database with over 9,300 technical articles. RNGR serves as a center of reforestation, nursery, and tree improvement expertise within the Forest Service. The RGNR team is made up of regional specialists and scientists whose goal is to provide current, relevant technical assistance and technology transfer to the growers and users of native plants for conservation, reforestation, and restoration purposes.