Genetic Engineering

Weyerhaeuser operates seed orchards where we use the traditional techniques of selection and cross-pollination to produce seeds that grow superior trees. We grow seedlings in our own nurseries as well as purchase seedlings from others. We also use varietal seedlings, often referred to as clones. These varietal seedlings have genes that are all from the natural population of the species and, when mature, all pollen and seed produced by our varietal trees are entirely natural. Use of varietal seedlings is commonplace in the Southern Hemisphere and is increasing in the U.S.

Weyerhaeuser does not grow genetically engineered trees. Genetically engineered plants are regulated by law, and no genetically engineered forest tree has been approved for use in the countries where we operate. We support continued scientific research to understand the benefits and risks, and to ensure safeguards are in place if and when genetic engineering is used in commercial forestry.