In situ gene conservation of six conifers in western Washington and Oregon.

Abstract

A gap analysis was conducted to evaluate the extent to which genetic resources are conserved in situ in protected areas for six species of conifers in the Pacific Northwest. The gap analysis involved producing a geographic information system (GIS) detailing the location of protected areas and the distribution and abundance of tree species, as inferred from data on potential plant association groups, actual plant associations, and actual land cover type. The GIS also employed two schemes for stratifying the distribution of each species into genetic populations for analysis: seed zones and ecoregions. The results show that most seed zones and ecoregions contain at least 5,000 mature individuals in protected areas, indicating strong in situ conservation. Protection is less complete, however, for western white pine in the Puget lowlands, where populations are heavily impacted by urbanization and disease. These populations represent the highest priority for additional research into the adequacy of conserved genetic resources. Other species and areas warranting further evaluation include Sitka spruce in some parts of the Puget lowlands, remnant western white pine stands in the Oregon Coast range, and sugar pine within the white pine blister rust zone.

Citation

Lipow, S.R.; Vance-Borland, K.; St. Clair, J.B.; Henderson, J.A.; McCain, C. 2007. In situ gene conservation of six conifers in western Washington and Oregon. Western Journal of Applied Forestry. 22(3): 176-187