Sweden Initiates a Large Scale Tree Improvement and Seed Production Program for Lodgepole Pine

Abstract

Lodgepole pine is an exotic with impressive growth potential in northern and central Sweden. In recent years this species has gained a wide acceptance for use in reforestation and Swedish authorities have therefore embarked on a significant tree improvement and seed production program to meet future demands for high quality seed. The initial phase of this program, a recently completed parent tree selection project in western Canada, is described in this paper. Subsequent plans for genetic testing and seed production in Sweden are also addressed.