The major threats to forest genetic resource conservation is the current level of deforestation in Zambia estimated at about 200 000 - 300 000 hectares annually. The main causes of deforestation are:
- increased logging activities both licensed and unlicensed;In the case of logging activities, there is over-exploitation of a few selected high grade timber species such as Pterocarpus angolensis, Baikiaea plurijuga and Guibortia coleosperma. For species such as Baikiaea plurijuga, it has proved to be very difficult to regenerate, hence its future is very much threatened. The consumption of roundwood timber in the county is estimated at 22.5 million cubic meters per annum while for woodfuel, the consumption is about 11.4 million tons per annum.- expansion of agricultural activities due to the increase in population at a rate of 3.1 percent per annum;
- increased levels of charcoal production for commercial purposes;
- establishment of illegal settlements in forest reserves.
Most valuable indigenous timber tree species are selectively harvested, aimed at removing the best mature trees leaving unsalable and defective trees. There is no consideration for leaving some of the best trees as mother trees and therefore, the defective trees intend to take up the position of parent trees bearing seed for future generations. Some of the indigenous tree species are now in danger of genetic impoverishment while others are threatened with extinction.
