Our Mission
The mission of the HTIRC is to advance the science and application of tree improvement, management, and protection of hardwood forests, with emphasis in the Central Hardwood Forest Region (CHFR).
Our Goals
- HTIRC – Working the Forests for the Future (YouTube video)
- Develop hardwood (oak and walnut) molecular markers for use in determination of genetic quality and population structure of current natural forests and plantations, and quantitative genes in superior hardwood trees.
- Develop vegetative and tissue culture propagation technologies for use in genomics research and mass propagation systems for superior trees.
- Develop nursery guides for production of quality seedlings and forest management guides for regeneration and reforestation of degraded agricultural land and riparian zones.
- Develop breeding and selection programs for black walnut, black cherry and northern red oak.