Metsähallitus is currently carrying out forest management work in Paljakka, Puolanka, in a gene reserve forest for the spruce administrated by the Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke). The aim of the management measures is to increase the seed production and emergence of the spruce. Rapid emergence of new tree generations maintains the genetic diversity of the spruce and supports the adaptation of the species to such challenges as changing climate conditions.
In Paljakka, forest regeneration is carried out by cutting hold-overs and making small clearings. The management measures were planned together with Luke.
A gene reserve forest is an area where the genetic resources of a certain tree species are conserved in a natural setting and at the original site, ensuring the greatest possible diversity. Paljakka gene reserve forest represents the high-altitude spruce forests found in Kainuu.
Regenerating gene reserve forests with the aim of producing a new generation with as many individuals as possible is a precondition for maintaining the diversity of genetic resources. A gene reserve forest should contain trees of all age classes, and it thus needs to be managed repeatedly.
Luke is responsible for conserving the diversity of forest trees’ gene resources following the Finnish National Plant Genetic Resources programme. Luke prepares management plans for gene reserve forests in cooperation with landowners and ensures the completion of measures which promote the diversity of genetic resources.
Further information:
Natural Resources Institute Finland, Senior Advisor Taneli Kohlström, + 358295325011
Metsähallitus, Regional Director Arto Tolonen, tel. +358400192931