Forest Genetics and Ecosystems Biology (SRS-4160)

The Southern Institute of Forest Genetics (SIFG) was established July 1, 1954 on the Harrison Experimental Forest, located 25 miles north of Gulfport, MS. The Experimental Forest covers 4,111 acres that typify about 31 millions acres of land with similar soils and topography in the South. The Institute is housed in some buildings that date back to the mid-1930s, constructed by the CWA, WPA, and CCC; four new laboratories for molecular genetic analyses on southern pines were recently added to the site.

The current Forest Genetics and Ecosystems Biology Research Work Unit (RWU-4160) consists of three research teams located across six states:

• Southern Institute of Forest Genetics (MS, TX, FL)
• Southern Institute of Forest Productivity (NC)
• Institute of Forest Health (KY)

Forest Genetics and Ecosystems Biology
23332 Success Rd
Saucier, MS 39547

228-832-2747 Ext. 200

Research at the SIFG focuses on developing procedures to improve the health, productivity and genetic diversity of southern forests through better understanding of the genetics, ecology and evolutionary relationships in forest ecosystems.

This mission is accomplished through:

• Basic and applied genetic research and structural genomics with applications for evolutionary biology, forest management, and tree improvement
• The integration of basic physiological and genetic research and functional genomics with applications for tree improvement and ecosystem restoration and management
• The integration of genetic, physiologic, soils, and ecologic principles and research approaches to understand the basic processes of carbon and nutrient cycling in forest ecosystems

Productivity

The Southeast Tree Research and Education Site (SETRES)
Carbohydrate Pools in Pine Tissues Grown Under Different Nutritional Environments
In-situ Root Decomposition and Methodology

Sustainability

Croatan Long Term Soil Productivity (LTSP) Study
LTSP Root Growth and Methodology

Carbon Sequestration

Automatic Carbon Efflux System (ACES)

Biodiversity

Restoring Longleaf Pine to Hydric Soils: Minimizing Adverse Effects on Native Ground Cover
Longleaf Pine Seedling Survival and the Role of Fire on a Flatwoods Site
Seed Bank Viability in Disturbed Longleaf Pine Stands