Problems and prospects for forest tree improvement research in the United States

Tree improvement research has played an important role in production of wood and fiber in the United States. Research programs have been established in universities, state and federal agencies, and private industry since the early 1900’s. In the last 15 years, however, traditional tree improvement research has been declining This paper discusses some of the contributing factors to reduction of effort in this important research area and what could be done to avoid further decline.