ABSTRACT
Forest genetic resources refer to the genetic variation in trees (woody perennials) of current or future value to humans. They are crucial for the well-being of people and adequate functioning of forest ecosystems, but are increasingly threatened as populations of tree species are lost or degraded as a result of human activities. The chapter looks at the diversity of benefits that are derived from forest/tree genetic resources, the state of knowledge of those resources and issues that are crucial to their sustainable use and conservation, both within and outside of forests. In particular, it considers the conservation-on-farm value of trees and how the context of landscape, land-use, agricultural/agroforestry systems, the forest/agriculture interface and socio-economic and cultural values influence use and conservation options. This is set against a background of how basic biological differences between tree species and annual/other crops influence levels and patterns of genetic diversity, their subsequent use and conservation.
