Ash for the future: defining European ash populations for conservation and regeneration

The research programme FRAXIGEN will strengthen the scientific basis for the sustainable conservation and regeneration of ash genetic resources in Europe through improved understanding of three native Fraxinus species. Genetic structure and gene flow among natural European populations, and the influence of the reproductive system will be studied in detail. This combined with trials to investigate the distances over which environmental adaptation occurs, will provide a rational basis for defining ‘local’ population (as required by EU directives) as well as insights into (a) the resilience of populations to global change, and (b) how anthropogenic selection has affected adaptive variation. Partners from northern and southern Europe will collaborate closely to deliver scientifically – based guidelines for defining provenances and selecting sustainable seed sources. Dissemination methods will include website and regular meetings with end users.