Cost-effective methods for providing vast numbers of identical Christmas trees from a single seed seem to be in sight. Automated technology for plant tissue culture-based (somatic embryogenesis) production of conifer trees is in great progress giving hope for the provision of a variety of seedlings with desirable properties. This was among the subjects discussed recently at the 13th Christmas Tree Research and Extension Conference.

Icelandic Forest Research at Mógilsá celebrated its 50-year anniversary on August 20th 2017. The jubilee included an open house at the station and the formal opening of the Mógilsá arboretum.