In this episode of In The Woods by Oregon State University's Extension Service, host Jake
Barker discusses assisted migration and assisted gene flow with Jess Shamek, a field
botanist and researcher focused on the adaptive capacity of Oregon White Oak. The
conversation covers the definitions and importance of these practices in the context of
climate change, best management practices, and the interconnectedness of forestry,
farming, and ecology. They also discuss several tools and frameworks, such as the RAD
framework, ClimateNA, and the Seed-lot Selection Tool, for planning and decision-making
in forest management. Throughout the episode, there is an emphasis on understanding the
risks, increasing genetic and species diversity, and learning from past introductions of non-
native plants. For more information and resources concerning this episode and more, go to inthewoodspodcast.com.
00:00 Introduction to the Podcast
00:38 Meet Your Host: Jake Barker
00:44 Today's Topic: Assisted Migration and Gene Flow
01:17 Guest Introduction: Jess Shamek
03:54 Defining Assisted Migration
07:02 Understanding Assisted Gene Flow
12:17 Best Management Practices in Climate Change
21:41 The Role of Large-Scale Disturbances
26:09 Climate Change and Plant Communities
26:42 Best Management Practices (BMPs) for Ecosystems
27:15 Increasing Genetic and Species Diversity
29:45 Challenges and Testing of BMPs
31:37 Tools for Climate Adaptation
34:16 Species Distribution Models and Climate Data
40:42 Assisted Migration and Horticultural Practices
44:50 Final Thoughts and Resources
