Mt Gambier to lead nation in forestry genetic researchFriday 14 Jun 2024
“Today, the State Government and Tree Breeding Australia (TBA) announced a jointly-funded A$900,000 nationally significant, purpose built and dedicated research facility at Kilsby Road, Mount Gambier, that is set to genetically improve plantation trees to increase productivity and protect against biosecurity threats”, said Mr Nathan Paine, Chief Executive Officer of the South Australian Forest Products Association. “TBA manages the national cooperative tree improvement programs for radiata pine (softwood) and blue gum (hardwood) plantations and provides scientific expertise and genetic valuation on crops to ensure our foresters are planting the best genetically blessed trees, which in the long-term increases forestry productivity and the supply of wood- fibre to both domestic and international markets”, said Mr Paine. “Growing plantations isn’t just about planting a tree, watering it, and watching it grow – plantation health and resilience is a major priority for the forestry sector and Tree Breeding Australia, and without TBA’s expertise and valuable input to improve tree genetics, our forest and timber industries would be years behind in innovation and adoption” continued Mr Paine. “Over the last two years, Minister Scriven and the South Australian Government have invested significantly into the States forestry sector, particularly through the establishment of a Forestry Centre of Excellence, the development of a Wood Fibre and Timber Industry Master Plan, and now the funding needed to deliver Tree Breeding Australia’s research facility expansion”, continued Mr Paine. “Mount Gambier is nationally recognised as a softwood manufacturing hub and is now fast becoming a premier hub of forestry innovation, and we are so pleased to have the Government, industry and stakeholders supporting the future innovation of the forest and timber industries”, concluded Mr Paine. Source: South Australia Forest Products Association | ||
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