National tree and shrub seed supply assessment

The National Tree Seed Centre (NTSC) is leading a national assessment of ecologically appropriate tree and shrub seed supply to support large-scale nature-based solutions for climate change, including the Government of Canada’s 2 Billion Trees program. This work expands upon the last assessment of reforestation needs completed in 1999.

From March 4 to May 2, 2022, five surveys were distributed to seed and seedling producers, seed collectors and planting agencies across the country to assess short-term capacity needs, gaps and opportunities in each jurisdiction. Thanks to everyone who participated.

While we work through the results, the NTSC continues to engage with policymakers and organizations involved in procuring seed for reforestation, restoration and reclamation programs. Outcomes include a final report, presentations to collaborators and capacity-building tools.

If you did not participate in the surveys, sign up for our Newsletter or contact us to learn more.

Our experience in maximizing seed quality and storage for over 200 tree and shrub species can support knowledge exchange and recommendations for organizations scaling up their efforts. We welcome inquiries from Indigenous led organizations looking to develop their work further.

Seed supply surveys

Sizing Canada’s National Seed Supply

The primary goal of this survey was to understand current and short-term forecasted activity and players involved in the domestic seed supply chain in Canada

Restoration and reclamation planners, practitioners and planters

The primary goal of this survey was to understand:

• the role and needs within the restoration / reclamation sector before the Government of Canada’s 2 Billions Trees program was announced
• anticipated needs for the next decade

Growers

The primary goal of this survey was to highlight:

• the importance of nursery producers
• recent trends in native plant production before the Government of Canada’s 2 Billions Trees program was announced

Seed collectors, orchards and producers

The primary goal of this survey was to highlight:

• the importance of seed collectors, collection agencies, orchards or managed production areas
• current demographic and economic profiles to assess the sustainability of these activities

Planning, policy, research and education providers

The primary goal of this survey was to highlight:

• the importance of planners, researchers and education providers in the development of seed-based solutions before the Government of Canada’s 2 Billions Trees program was announced

Contact the NTSC

For more information contact the National Tree Seed Centre.

Atlantic Forestry Centre, National Tree Seed Centre
1350 Regent Street
Fredericton, NB E3C 2G6
Tel: 506-452-4162
Fax: 506-452-3525