Elements of a National Strategy for Management and Use of Plant Genetic Resourses in Georgia

Abstract

Georgia is a country of rich natural resources and one of the oldest agricultures on earth. Through its agricultural legacy Georgian farmers have developed many unique varieties of plants that provide gene resources for the future in agriculture. These resources are at risk of loss and, in fact, many have been lost, as agriculture advances to be a stronger component of the national economy. Plant genetic resources (PGR), defined as the genetic materials of domesticated and wild plants that are progenitors or relatives of economic plants, must be protected for future use. Thus, the efficient conservation of plant genetic resources and their sustainable utilization in plant breeding and seed systems are a high priority as Georgia strives for greater economic strength through its agricultural industry.