USDA Forest Service Celebrating Wildflowers

 

Protecting Plant Genetic Resources

Gene Conservation

alpine meadow of the Albion basin in the Wasatch Mountains
Photo by Teresa Prendusi.

The development and use of genetically appropriate plant material can help maintain genetic diversity and protect plant populations in their natural habitat (in situ conservation). Establishing and supporting ex situ, or off-site, seed banks is an additional important aspect of gene conservation, and provides an insurance policy against the loss of wild populations.

The Forest Service maintains several regional seed bank facilities, and cooperates with other federal and private organizations in building seed banks to preserve the genetic heritage of native plant species.

man standing between two long rows of seed racks in a seed bank.

For more information, visit the following sites:

U.S. Forest Service
Rangeland Management
Botany Program

1400 Independence Ave., SW, Mailstop Code: 1103
Washington DC 20250-1103

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Location: http://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/nativeplantmaterials/conservation.shtml
Last modified: Tuesday, 24-Jun-2008 21:54:53 EDT