Native seed collection for restoration
- Type
- sampling
Summary
Ethical and genetically sound seed collection protocol for Hawaiian native species. Emphasizes local provenance, population-level sampling, voucher documentation, and post-harvest handling. Supports downstream nursery and direct-seeding programs.
Record 40000000Updated 4/17/2026
Steps
- 01Confirm collection permits (DOFAW, NPS, or landowner authorization) are in hand before field work.
- 02Scout the collection zone: identify at least 20 unrelated parent individuals distributed across the population.
- 03For each parent, record GPS, phenological stage, apparent health, and estimated seed availability.
- 04Collect no more than 20% of available seed from any one individual.
- 05Avoid plants with disease symptoms, heavy insect damage, or obvious stress.
- 06Bag seed by parent in labeled paper or cloth bags. Never seal wet seed in plastic.
- 07Press voucher specimens for first-time collections or taxonomically ambiguous species.
- 08Within 48 hours: clean seed, record dry weight and estimated seed count, label with full provenance.
- 09Store according to species-specific requirements (temperature, humidity, container).
- 10Enter collection record in nursery / program tracking system; retain voucher at regional herbarium.