Sufficient genetic diversity ensures the preservation of the tree species growing in Finnish forests in the changing environment. Taking care of the genetic diversity and resources is an important part of the protection of biodiversity. Finland is committed to this by several international agreements and conventions. Genetic diversity means intra-species variation, i.e. variation between individuals of the same species.
A network of gene reserve forests has been set up to protect the genetic resources of forests. The network is supplemented by preservation collections and traditional nature conservation areas. The protection of the genetic resources of forest trees is included in the National Plant Genetic Resources Programme for Finnish Agriculture and Forestry. The protection of forest genetic resources is the responsibility of the Finnish Forest Research Institute.
Ensuring the genetic diversity of forest trees is also included in the objectives of the statutes concerning trade in forest reproductive material and forest tree breeding activities.