Our mission is to increase value to landowners and citizens through continuous genetic improvement of forest trees.
OUR PROCESS
Breeding, testing, selection
For over 60 years, we have partnered with industry and state agencies to breed loblolly pine for improved performance. Our goal is to increase value to landowners by creating highly productive forests. We rigorously test the trees and select elite individuals that offer the greatest potential value, all the while maintaining genetic diversity for future breeding generations. The process provides numerous planting options for various deployment and management strategies. As a result, over 60% of loblolly pine seedlings planted in the southern US is from our improved genetics.
Genetics Matter
Know what you are planting
Forest landowners should always plant adapted families of loblolly pine that have appropriate levels of genetic improvement for traits like volume growth, disease resistance, and desirable stem form. We developed the loblolly pine Performance Rating System (PRS™) as a service to landowners, nursery managers, and the tree improvement community. PRS™ expresses the genetic potential of a family for stem volume production, resistance to fusiform rust disease, stem straightness as well as forking and wood quality.
RESEARCH
Supporting the process
Applied research is the foundation of our success. It enables us to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of our tree breeding processes.
Key focus areas include: Seed orchard research for controlled pollination, Genomic selection, Genetic parameters and response to selection, Molecular marker discovery, QTL mapping and marker aided selection, Wood quality, Longleaf Pine Improvement
List of publications
Annual Reports
OUTPUT
Contributions to forestry
Superior genetics
Optimal breeding strategies
Enhanced understanding of the genetic and environmental control of growth and wood properties
Increased seed production efficiency from seed orchards
Integration of genomics and conventional breeding strategies to enhance forest productivity
Membership
Partner with us
Our members become partners and support the breeding and research initiatives. In return, they are able to utilize the knowledge and advanced genetic material developed within our Program. Our membership base is wide, ranging from vertically integrated forest products companies, state agencies, TIMOs, REITs, tree nurseries, land consultants and biotech companies. Contact us to see what membership option will best suit your business needs.
THE STAFF & STUDENTS
Providing vital research
The dedicated staff of the Cooperative include NC State University faculty and full time staff. Through research and extension, these folks provide contributions to the scientific community as well as the greater forestry and forest products communities. The Cooperative also maintains a continuous flow of graduate and undergraduate students (pictured). Our goal is to rigorously educate and train these students to become highly sought forestry professionals.