“This program provides uniquely valuable research data that is driving the development of seedlings that are calibrated to our climate. This enables them to grow faster and stronger, helping us grow more resilient forests,” Tennessee State Forester Heather Slayton said. “Tree improvement programs are a long game, so we are excited to formalize this long-term agreement to ensure the continuation of this program for generations to come,” she said.

“Our longtime partnership with UT Tree Improvement Program will benefit wildlife conservation and natural resources across the state for generations,” TWRA Executive Director Jason Maxedon said. “Collecting high-quality seeds and knowing the genetics from trees on wildlife management areas ensures the state has a bank of locally adapted seeds that can be put back on the landscape to make meaningful advances in forestry work.”

UT-TIP and TDF first developed a partnership in 1966 and continued updating it every five years until 2018. The program also signed a five-year agreement with TWRA in 2013.

Scott Schlarbaum, UT-TIP director and UTIA School of Natural Resources professor, added, “The new MOU provides a framework for TDF, TWRA and UT-TIP to work together toward increasing productivity in Tennessee forests while protecting forest function and structure. All seed from the orchards covered under this agreement will be transferred to the State Nursery to meet Tennessee landowners’ needs.”

The seed collection will help improve Tennessee forests while advancing property owners’ land management goals. Don Hodges, School of Natural Resources director, said: “This is a unique partnership, bringing together the state forestry and wildlife agencies with the oldest university-based hardwood tree improvement program in the country. This will ensure that Tennessee’s citizens have access to nursery stock to achieve a wide range of management objectives, from timber production to improved wildlife habitat and other ecosystem services.”