Selecting native plant materials for restoration projects: ensuring local adaptation and maintaining genetic diversity

Abstract

This publication is for people involved in the important task of rehabilitating and restoring Oregon’s threatened or degraded habitats. Growing numbers of private landowners, local organizations, and government entities are embarking on projects to restore the health or function of their riparian areas, wetlands, prairies, savannas, and other habitats. Choosing the right plants is critical to the long-term success of these projects, but it is not always as straightforward as it seems. Managers often lack a strong background in genetics and may be confused by competing (and sometimes conflicting) claims when collecting or buying seeds, seedlings, or other plant materials.