Briefing Papers
National Reforestation, Nurseries, and Genetic Resources (RNGR) Program
Tree planting programs have been a major part of forestry and conservation since modern land management began. Reforestation and restoration projects yield better air and water quality, enhanced wildlife habitat, greater biodiversity and ecosystem sustainability, healthier forests, reduced soil erosion, and increased timber production. With the adoption of the Forest Service National Native Plants Policy and the growing activity and interest shown by other agencies and organizations in ecosystem restoration and sustainability, planting programs are the subject of renewed interest. Demand for native species, each having its own cultural and site requirements, has risen dramatically, as have requests for information about how to propagate, store, ship, and plant native species. Relevant expertise and research within the Forest Service, universities, and other organizations is hard pressed to adequately address this increasing need for reliable, scientifically sound information.
National Seed Laboratory
The Forest Service National Native Plants Policy promotes the use of native plant materials for the revegetation, restoration, and rehabilitation of native plant communities to provide for the conservation of ecosystem diversity (Forest Service Manual 2070.3). Most native plants used for ecosystem conservation and restoration are propagated exclusively from seeds. Sufficient quantities of seeds are needed to restore and sustain native plant communities that are increasingly affected by invasive species, pest infestations, wildfire, and climate change.
RNGR Program Tribal Emphasis
American Indian Tribes are working hard to preserve their traditional ecological knowledge and to develop and enhance native plant production for spiritual, medicinal, cultural, land restoration, and educational uses. Since 2001, the Reforestation, Nurseries, and Genetics Resources (RNGR) team of the USDA Forest Service has emphasized outreach to Tribes in order to foster long-term collaborations focusing on native plants, nurseries, and educational activities.
