Canada A conceptual framework for managing forest genetic resources was previously outlined by D. Joyce. A Genetic Heritage Program Prospectus was developed to guide the implementation of that framework. The prospectus is a matrix for the broad functional areas of policy, program, and research across multiple spatial and temporal scales. The matrix approach mirrors the multi-scale organization of genetic diversity and emphasizes the need for integrated and interrelated management strategies. This paper highlights works in progress by the provincial forest science institute in two pivotal areas, spatial database development and mesoscale spatial modelling.
Database development is the primary thrust of genetics within the operational program area.
It's goal is to provide a fundamental basis upon which to document and describe a putative status for Ontario's forest tree species. Regional status reports are used to document and describe landscape level organization of genetic diversity. A combination of existing databases, supplementary field assessments, and spatial modelling were used to report on Rowe's Great Lakes St. Lawrence Forest Region west of Lake Superior, a disjunct section of the much larger northern hardwood forest region. Spatial analysis and modelling are the primary thrusts of applied research. Coarse-scale models of primary environmental variables have recently been developed.