Quaking aspen (Populus tremuloides) is the most widely-distributed tree species in North America, and is one of the iconic species of the West. The species has high economic, ecological, and bioenergy value. This project is a collaboration between scientists in the USA, Mexico, and Canada. It will generate a complete genome for the species, and will also generate sequencing data for thousands of individuals from across the species range, including relictual southern populations whose genetic information may be critical for climate adaptation and climate-smart management of this species. This project is a collaboration with the Department of Energy Joint Genome Institute.

We are completing two haplotype-resolved and annotated reference genomes (one in California; one in Utah [Pando]) and whole genome sequencing data for ~2,000 individuals across the species range; all datasets will be released publicly via the DOE Genome Portal when ready.