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Scientists at the VIB-UGent Centre for Plant Systems Biology and VIVES University College have developed a new method to genetically improve poplar trees without introducing foreign DNA into its genome. Source: Timberbiz Gene editing tools like CRISPR are revolutionizing plant science by allowing precise and targeted improvements to plant traits, such as wood quality, disease resistance, or drought tolerance. However, in many cases, the gene-editing ‘machinery’ is permanently integrated into the plant’s DNA, creating regulatory obstacles to using the plants. In annual crops like maize or rice, this problem is often solved by crossing plants to remove the foreign DNA. But trees like poplar take years to reach maturity, rendering this approach slow and possibly leading to the loss of desirable traits. Now, researchers led by Prof. Wout Boerjan (VIB-UGent) have developed a new method that prevents this issue. Instead of integrating the CRISPR system into the plant’s genome, the researchers used a technique called transient transformation. Using Agrobacterium tumefaciens — a bacterium commonly used in plant biotechnology — they introduced the CRISPR molecules into poplar cells, where they temporarily performed genetic edits without becoming part of the tree’s DNA. “The key innovation,” says Prof Boerjan, “is that the gene-editing tool does its job and then disappears without leaving a genetic trace behind.” To ensure that no CRISPR traces remained, the team used an advanced technique called long-read whole-genome sequencing, which scans the entire genome for even the smallest fragments of foreign DNA. Dr Lennart Hoengenaert (VIB-UGent), first author of the study, reports that nearly half of the regenerated poplar shoots were completely free of foreign DNA. “This is crucial,” he explains, “because it brings these gene-edited trees closer to being treated like conventionally bred plants under upcoming European regulations. “This method offers a clear and practical path to creating trees that are more sustainable, climate-resilient, and easier to regulate,” says Prof Boerjan. “It could accelerate the deployment of genetically enhanced trees, with benefits for both the environment and the bio-based economy.”

A new national forest stretching from the Cotswolds to the Mendips is set to be created, adding at least 2,500 hectares of new woodland to the West of England. Source: Timberbiz The government manifesto committed to three new national forests and this new Western Forest will serve more than 2.5 million residents, the government has said, bringing trees and woodlands closer to urban centres such as Bristol, Gloucester and Swindon. The Western Forest will be spearheaded by the Forest of Avon, one of England’s Community Forests, supported by up to £7.5 million of government funding over five years, alongside accelerating tree-planting in local areas. The project will work to revitalise existing woodlands and other important habitats to create a forest network for people and wildlife at a truly landscape scale. The new national forest will help the drive to net zero while promoting economic growth and creating jobs in Wiltshire, Gloucestershire and across the West of England, as part of the Government’s Plan for Change. It will also help the UK meet its nature and legal environment targets including halting the decline of species and protecting 30% of land for nature by 2030. “The Government was elected on a mandate to plant three new national forests this parliament, as part of our commitment to reach net zero and drive sustainable growth under the Government’s Plan for Change. We will plant 20 million trees in the Western Forest to bring nature closer to people, prevent flooding and support wildlife,” Nature Minister Mary Creagh said. Alex Stone, Chief Executive of Forest of Avon, England’s Community Forests, added that the Forest of Avon is thrilled to have led a wonderfully diverse and engaged partnership to bring the Western Forest to life. “This is about resource, funding and expertise coming directly to landowners, partners and communities, planting millions of trees in the right places. Together, we will enhance landscapes for all to enjoy, improving the lives of our 2.5 million residents and visitors to the region. “Encompassing two of England’s Community Forests and working alongside the National Forest Company and Defra, the Western Forest will enhance, connect and improve our urban and rural landscapes, support investment into the region, create jobs and skills opportunities and bring the endless benefits we get back from planting and caring for our trees. It is a very exciting time for this region, and we look forward to helping shape what the Western Forest will become.”

The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) and Mirova, an affiliate of Natixis Investment Managers dedicated to sustainable investing, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to unlock responsible finance for planted forests, sustainable management of natural forests, and other land-use projects. Source: Timberbiz This strategic alliance aims to address some of the world’s most pressing environmental and social challenges, including deforestation, soil degradation, climate change, biodiversity loss, and to promote equitable economic development and inclusiveness. Sustainable forest management is essential for enhancing climate resilience, preserving biodiversity, and ensuring decent livelihoods for local communities. In 2022, the world lost 6.6 million hectares of forests, primarily in tropical regions, contributing to significant biodiversity loss and an increase of 2.7 gigatonnes of CO2 emissions. Through their partnership, FSC and Mirova aim to champion best-in-class forest conservation, large-scale reforestation, and responsible production of forest-based materials. By channelling investments into FSC-certified solutions, the partnership seeks to drive measurable impact in climate adaptation and mitigation, biodiversity preservation, and social inclusion, with a strong focus on empowering women and Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities. FSC and Mirova will work together to identify high-impact investment opportunities and implement forestry projects through the Mirova Sustainable Land Fund 2, which focuses on sustainable land management and ecosystem restoration. With an initial focus on Central and South America, Sub-Saharan Africa, and Southeast Asia, the partnership will prioritize building a robust pipeline of forestry initiatives that deliver measurable environmental and social benefits and aims to implement the best sustainable forestry and reforestation practices within timber and other forest resource value chains. “Our partnership with FSC will enable us to direct capital toward high-quality forestry projects that not only protect vital ecosystems but also empower local communities,” Gautier Queru, Managing Director, Natural Capital, Mirova said. “By investing in these sustainable initiatives, we seek to enhance the potential for long-term financial returns, demonstrating that responsible investing can yield both environmental and economic benefits for all, while addressing urgent challenges like deforestation and climate change.” Subhra Battacharjee, Director General, FSC International said that Forests are global public good in their role as a critical line of defense against climate change and biodiversity loss. They also provide food, livelihoods and ecosystem services to over 1.6 billion people. “Our partnership with Mirova represents a major step toward aligning responsible investment with responsible forest management, ensuring forests continue to support people and the planet for generations to come,” he said. This partnership underscores the critical role of sustainable finance in scaling nature-based solutions to address global sustainability challenges. By integrating impact-driven investment strategies with FSC-certified forestry projects, FSC and Mirova are setting a new precedent for leveraging financial markets to drive environmental and social progress.

There are probably few corners of New Zealand that Dave Henley hasn’t set foot in over his remarkable four-decade career in forestry. From jaw-dropping kilometres on foot, to months away from home, to battling relentless weather and rugged bush, Mr Henley has done it alland done it with heart. Source: Timberbiz His deep love for New Zealand’s native landscapes, paired with his unwavering dedication to the bigger environmental picture, has left a lasting influence on both the land and the people he’s worked with. Craving the outdoors more than the confines of a classroom, Mr Henley left school in 1978 after sixth form (Year 12). He began his forestry journey training as a woodsman in Ashley Forest, then spent time in the Bay of Plenty at Rotoehu. But it was the pull of the South Island that brought him home and into a job with the Forest Research Institute, now Scion, where he would stay for the next 43 years. After joining the mensuration team, now known as the tree biometrics team, he excelled in a role that supports a wide range of researchers and their diverse needs. His contributions have been central to nearly all of Scion’s forestry-related research, which has become a defining strength of the organisation. “The role is always evolving, we adapt to whatever’s needed,” he says. “But one thing stays the same: you have to be field capable.” By that, Mr Henley means both physically and mentally fit. “You’re out in the field all the time. It’s tough work, and mental resilience is even more important than physical fitness. I’ve seen people struggle out there. You’ve got to be grounded and genuinely interested in your surroundings – whether that’s spotting a bird or identifying a unique tree species. That curiosity makes all the difference.” Forest Nutritional Ecologist Project Leader Graham Coker says Mr Henley’s field determination is a legacy highly admired by all the colleagues he’s mentored over time so much so that they would often say with pride, “I managed to keep up with Dave today!” Yet even on a good day, only a few ever matched his efficiency in the long run. Mr Henley talks passionately about the amazing remote places he’s worked in, particularly Fiordland and Stewart Island. One highlight? A three-week stint incorporating Chew Tabacco Bay, Port Adventure, Lords River, and Toitoi Bay on the eastern side of Stewart Island. “We were out there measuring timber volume, tramping 5km inland from the coast each day. It could be hard going, but when you’ve got kiwi poking around your feet … well, it’s hard to beat. Sometimes it really did feel like a working holiday.” Another standout in Mr Henley’s career has been his work on the Ministry for the Environment’s LUCAS program, which supports New Zealand’s efforts to tackle climate change. This work led to the country’s first continuous National Forest Inventory, helping track the health of our forests and how much carbon they can store. Program Lead Thomas Paul says Mr Henley played a vital role in making sure forest measurements, especially in both planted and native forest, met the high standards needed. “Dave brought a really rigorous approach to auditing field teams, many of whom were less experienced. He was essential in maintaining the quality we needed,” Mr Paul said. For Mr Henley, it was eye-opening work: “Being part of LUCAS audits really changed how I looked at things. It’s a huge data effort, and it’s raised the bar for how we do other trial work too. It keeps us focused and working toward something much bigger.” Mr Paul added that Dave really was one of the key people making sure New Zealand’s greenhouse gas accounting is accurate. “Experts like him, who can work precisely in tough field conditions, are becoming rare. His measurements support everything from carbon stocks to timber volume and forest growth models.” Some assignments pushed Mr Henley to his limits, like the two six-month winter stints on the West Coast near Lake Brunner, studying dieback in rata and kamahi forests. “It was very physical. We had to lug cement up steep hills to set up weather stations around trees. That area sees snow and vast amounts of rain – character-building stuff.” Mr Henley’s incredible field knowledge and attention to detail have built a reputation and legacy of trust across the industry. The data he has collected underpins countless scientific studies over the years, at least 228 documents of all types. “That’s something I’m really proud of, consistently providing high-quality data that scientists can rely on. I’ve tried to pass that mindset on to the younger ones coming through,” he said. He’s also known for his great spatial memory when it comes to trial sites. “These days, everyone’s glued to GPS. But I still work off landmarks at least, until they cut the trees down!” he laughs. Senior Scientist and Portfolio Leader for Establishing Indigenous Forests, Simeon Smaill, shares this tribute: “Dave Henley has accumulated a vast store of information about trials across the South Island, covering an incredible range of species, treatments, and conditions. His insights are still shaping our work today. With Dave and the field team guiding us, we’re able to build on decades of research without reinventing the wheel.” Reflecting on his time at Scion, Mr Henley says, “It’s special seeing trials I helped start now going into their second rotation. It’s hard to find places I haven’t been now, which says something after all these years.” As he heads into retirement, he has no plans of slowing down. There’s plenty on the cards: gardening, tramping, woodworking, volunteering, pest control, and maybe even a bit of travel. “My wife and I bought a six-hectare section over 30 years ago and planted it out in natives. It’s a low-maintenance garden now, and I’ve applied a lot of what I learned in the field.” He also plans to lend a hand at the local wildlife park in Christchurch, helping with maintenance. “I also want […]

The Yaegl Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation is collaborating with Forestry Corporation to integrate cultural burning with government bushfire management. Source: Timberbiz This partnership aims to enhance the community’s resilience to major bushfires and improve land management practices on Yaegl Country. A fire training camp was held in Grafton, facilitated by the Fire, Country and People project, a three-year initiative funded by the Australian Government. The Yaegl Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation is collaborating with Forestry Corporation to integrate cultural burning with government bushfire management. This partnership aims to enhance the community’s resilience to major bushfires and improve land management practices on Yaegl Country. A fire training camp was held in Grafton, facilitated by the Fire, Country and People project, a three-year initiative funded by the Australian Government. Yaegl Wadyarr Gargle Land & Sea Contractors Business Manager Grant Brown highlighted the benefits of the training for the community. “Having 20 members of our community trained as accredited firefighters on Forestry Corporation appliances and equipment also provides an extra level of bushfire protection,” Mr Brown said. “We have 82 threatened floral and fauna species on Yaegl land, and fire management is key to their protection by preventing wildfires, regenerating our native species, and ensuring the forests germinate to their full potential by reducing weed growth.” Fire, Country and People will also help to build the scientific evidence base behind cultural burning with a research program to investigate the effects of traditional Aboriginal fire practices on the intensity and extent of bushfires. The $3-million Fire, Country and People: Aboriginal Community Disaster Ready Project has received funding from the Australian Government and is jointly funded by Forestry Corporation.