Chair: Mr Bruno Fady (France)

Vice Chair: Mr Alistair Pfeifer (Ireland)

Conifers are dominating tree species in various forest formations in Europe. There are 45–50 species represented in the European flora but relatively few species (e.g. Abies alba, A. sibirica, Picea abies, Larix sibirica, L. decidua, Pinus cembra, P. sylvestris, P. nigra, P. halepensis and P. maritime) have a relative wide distribution range and considerable commercial value. Conifer genetic resources have been depleted due to extensive human utilization and several species are now classified as threatened tree species in the Mediterranean region, for example.

During Phase III of EUFORGEN (2005-2009), the Conifers Network continues to its work based on the earlier outputs. The Conifers Network started its activities as the Picea abies (Norway spruce) Network in 1995 when Phase I of EUFORGEN was initiated. For the second phase (1999-2004), the name of the Network was changed to ‘Conifers Network’ and the scope of the Network was extended to cover most conifers found in Europe.

The discussions within the Network have stressed the importance of promoting conservation of genetic diversity of conifers to ensure evolutionary adaptability of the species under changing climatic conditions. The Network has produced technical guidelines for genetic conservation and use for several conifer species. Currently, as one of its activities, the Network is reviewing what kind of impacts various forest management practices have on genetic diversity of conifers in Europe.

To a large extent, the European forestry is based on sustainable use of the native conifer species. However, exotic conifer species, several North American conifers in particular, are also used for wood production and protecting the environment in countries like Iceland, Ireland and the UK. Despite the relatively short period of their use in Europe, several exotic conifers seem to have developed ‘landraces’ which are well adapted to their new environment. The Conifers Network has also decided to include conservation of such locally adapted genetic material as part of its activities.