Costs and Benefits of a Mature First-Generation Loblolly Pine Tree Improvement Program

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
First-generation tree improvement programs with loblolly pine (Pinus taeda L.) are now reaching maturity. Yields from first-generation seed orchards in the North Carolina State University-Industry Cooperative Tree Improvement Program are now great enough to allow most members to meet all of their regeneration needs with improved stock. Progeny test measurement is a major activity of the cooperative, with the final first-generation progeny tests established in 1983. Final crop gains on 25-year rotations from one generation of loblolly pine tree improvement are estimated to be as high as 7 percent in height (site index), 12 percent in cubic foot volume, and 32 percent in harvest value. Tree improvement continues to be an attractive investment opportunity. Rates of return for investments in loblolly pine tree improvement depend on seed orchard yields, but appear to be on the order of 17 to 19 percent after taxes.

This publication has 0 references indexed in Scilit: