Oak Genetic Improvement Program

Our forests are increasingly under threat from an array of invasive insects, diseases and plants. To proactively manage forests under these conditions we need to develop: a) knowledge of the genetic composition/diversity/resistance of key forest trees like oaks; b) technical expertise/infrastructure for identifying, developing and deploying resistant trees; and c) an engaged network of informed landowners. To meet these needs, the Kentucky Division of Forestry (KDF) proposes forming the Oak Genetic Improvement Program (OGIP) in collaboration with the Forest Health Research and Education Center (FHC). This program will facilitate access to improved oaks while developing a cadre of citizen scientists to share these trees and related silvicultural information. By leveraging FHCs scientific expertise and outreach resources with KDFs existing facilities, this program would significantly advance our ability to defend Kentucky’s and the region’s oak-dominated forests from future threats.