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| The
rare Chihuahua spruce (Pinus chihuahuana)
has been the subject of conservation efforts by
Working Group members for several years. |
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Introduction
The Forest Genetic Resources Working Group (FGRWG)
is one of seven Working Groups established by the
North American Forest Commission (NAFC), and the NAFC
is one of six Forest Commissions established by the
Food and
Agriculture Organization (FAO).
The
FGRWG was established by the NAFC in 1961
and held its inaugural meeting in 1965 as the Working
Group on Forest Tree Improvement. It became the Working
Party on Forest Tree Improvement in 1966, and was changed
to the Study Group on Tree Improvement by the NAFC
in 1970. In 1993 the name was changed by vote of the
delegates to Forest Genetic Resources Working Group
and approved by the NAFC to better reflect the
group's long-term focus.
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Mission
To
encourage and promote conservation of all forest genetic
resources.Genetic
resources are threatened by many causes, most traceable
to the demands of a burgeoning human population. Without
careful conservation, losses of genetic resources could
occur at a time when they are most needed. Protected
areas are important, but transfer of forest genetic
resources also may be necessary to counter environmental
change and achieve sustainable development. However,
support to conserve and manage these resources has been
limited, except for a few important commercial species.
Forest
genetic resources can be used in traditional breeding
programs or in the new biotechnologies. The advent of
molecular technology makes even non-commercial species
valuable for their genetic resources (e.g., Pacific
yew).
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| Samples
were collected for studies of the phylogeny and
genetics of Mexican spruces as a cooperative endeavour
of the Working Group and the Centro de Genética
Forestal, the Universidad Autónoma Chapingo,
the Universidad Autónoma agraria Antonio
Narro, and the Colegio de Postgraduados. |
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Objectives
- To
promote the collection, exchange, and dissemination
of information about forest genetic resources so that
in situ and ex situ programs of conservation and sustainable
use are based on sound scientific knowledge.
- To
promote cooperation and coordinate research, conservation,
training, and exchange among member countries on genetic
resource conservation problems.
- To
facilitate the international exchange of forest genetic
resources.
- To
encourage and promote genetic improvement programs
for important commercial forest species as a component
of forest conservation and as a contribution to the
economic welfare of North Americans.
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Operating
Strategy
The
FGRWG identifies tasks relevant to its objectives
and assigns a task force to accomplish the aims of the
task. Each task force is appointed by the chairperson
and usually includes one representative from each of the
three member nations. Accomplishments are evaluated during
the Working Group's periodic meetings. Tasks are either
continued until completed, or terminated if further progress
seems unlikely. The Working Group provides the NAFC
with a two-year work plan and accounts for its actions
with activity reports. |
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