DIVERSE_GENE_WATCH

A forest can look healthy while quietly losing something essential: the genetic diversity that allows its trees to adapt, regenerate and survive.

Across the Baltic Sea Region, forests are facing increasing pressure from climate change, pests, diseases and extreme weather. Forest managers can monitor tree growth, forest cover and visible damage but changes in genetic diversity often remain hidden until their consequences become difficult to reverse. This is the challenge at the heart of DIVERSE_GENE_WATCH.

DIVERSE_GENE_WATCH brings together researchers, forest authorities, forest managers, conservation organisations and other stakeholders from across the region to develop a harmonised Forest Genetic Monitoring (FGM) system for four keystone tree species: Quercus robur, Picea abies, Tilia cordata and Fraxinus excelsior. The FGM system in each country consists of (a) network of GM plots for keystone forest tree species, (b) FGM methods based on DNA genotyping, phenotyping and remote sensing, (c) common action plan for genetic diversity enrichment in case of detected declines, and (d) national legal implementation.

Following national and transnational project workshops, DIVERSE_GENE_WATCH published three key reports to guide this work:

• Design of forest genetic monitoring system elaborated with the key stakeholders in the Baltic Sea Region
• Scenarios and forest management plans on how to enrich genetic diversity
• Genetic monitoring guidelines to be tested

Across Denmark, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland and Sweden, the project is now establishing monitoring plots, selecting and marking trees, collecting samples for DNA analysis, and recording tree characteristics and environmental conditions.

Through local workshops, transnational events and its Advisory Board meeting, the project has continued to connect scientific methods with early pilot experiences. These exchanges have also created opportunities for stakeholders across the Baltic Sea Region to contribute their knowledge and perspectives.

The lessons from this development and piloting process will support the preparation of final, practical guidelines and a harmonised Forest Genetic Monitoring network for the Baltic Sea Region. By working across borders, the project aims to establish a durable, transnational system that can effectively assess forest genetic diversity, provide early warnings of emerging declines and support timely action to safeguard the region’s keystone forest tree species.