Forest Service Discusses Korean Fir Restoration Strategy On-Site

The Forest Service held an on-site forum on the 2nd in Minjujisan, Muju-gun, Jeonbuk Special Self-Governing Province, to confirm conservation achievements for the Korean Fir, which is facing a decline due to climate change, and to establish a restoration strategy for high-altitude evergreen species. Participating in the forum were organizations involved in Korean Fir restoration, including the National Institute of Forest Science, Gyeongnam Forest Environment Research Institute, Native Plant Seed Supply Center, and Forest Restoration Association.

Based on the successful ex-situ conservation case, attendees discussed the 'Ex-situ Conservation Strategy for High-Altitude Evergreen Species in the Climate Crisis.' Particular attention was given to the 'Optimal Seedling Placement Method based on DNA Pedigree Management,' designed to maximize genetic diversity. The systematic application of detailed conservation techniques, including seedling specifications, growing conditions, and post-planting management, resulted in a 96% survival rate for Korean Fir at the Minjujisan ex-situ conservation site.

Building on these achievements, the Forest Service plans to strengthen cooperation with local governments possessing concentrated habitats for high-altitude evergreen species, such as Jirisan and Hallasan. Son Soon-cheol, head of the Forest Ecosystem Restoration Division at the Forest Service, stated, "The success of ex-situ conservation for the Korean Fir proves the scientific foundation for protecting high-altitude evergreens in the era of climate crisis." He added, "Using this case as a standard model, we will expand ex-situ conservation projects for high-altitude evergreen species nationwide and further solidify our site-focused, data-driven policies."