Prospects of forest genetic resources conservation and tree seed provision in Ethiopia

Programs to conserve genetic variation between and within populations can use two basic strategies: in-situ conservation or ex-situ conservation. Ex-situ conservation requires that large numbers of seeds of many species be stored over long periods of time. Research into seed physiology and storage behavior is an essential component of ex-situ conservation activities for national and regional gene banks. In forestry, ex-situ conservation is conceived as a complementary, secondary method to in-situ conservation. Conservation, sustainable utilization and supply of reproductive material are viewed as three basic technical and integral components of successful management of forest genetic resources. The national experience in tree seed procurement and tree improvement is reviewed in this regard. Tree seed zonation, seed source identification, establishment and management have been key parts of the activities in tree seed programs in Ethiopia. In the last 10-years (from 1992-2002), a total of 77.2 tons of seeds of more than 70 tree species were collected and distributed to government, non-governmental organizations and individuals. The collection was mainly carried out from existing natural stands and plantations identified as seed sources. The request for tree seeds in the period was 131.3 tons, which means that only 59% of the demand was met. The top 10 major species distributed were all exotics, and in general the proportion of seeds distributed by exotics in terms of their seedling production capacity is 97% of the total distribution. To meet the national demand for tree seed, a better capacity should be build. Opportunities for provision of tree seeds in extension programs should be assessed in addressing smallholders demand for propagation material of woody species. Furthermore, research in to seed physiology, domestication techniques and propagation methods should be given attention in order to appropriately conserve and utilize genetic resources.