Use of molecular genetic markers in forest management

When managing forests for biodiversity or sustainability, attention must be given to how silvicultural practices affect genetic diversity. A new generation of DNA based markers affords a greater detail of genetic analysis than previously possible. These new markers, SSRs or microsatellites, have been used to demonstrate genetic diversity and infer evolutionary history of red pine, something that has not been possible with other markers. SSR markers developed by the Forest Service Research Biotechnology Unit are also being used to monitor how methods of sustainable timber management affect genetic diversity and breeding patterns within white pine stands on the Menominee Indian reservation.