This primer discusses the basic concepts of forest biotechnology, how biotech trees are managed, and why the Institute of Forest Biotechnology (IFB) created a set of stewardship principles for the responsible use of these trees. The Institute of Forest Biotechnology is the only organization to address the sustainability of forest biotechnology on a global scale. With the help of our Partners and Sponsors, we bring diverse stakeholders together to address societal, environmental, and economic aspects of forest biotechnology. More information about the IFB is available at www.forestbiotech.org Our forests are under pressure from global trade, population growth, invasive threats, and increased demand on natural resources. The IFB supports responsible uses of forest biotechnology that benefit society and the environment through science, dialogue, and stewardship. Together, with the Forest Biotechnology Partnership, the IFB is the most comprehensive information source on forest biotechnology - anywhere. We would like to thank the Responsible Use Initiative's Implementation Committee, the U.S. Forest Service, and our Initiative Sponsors for providing the technical and financial resources to make this work possible. For additional information on the Responsible Use: Biotech Tree Principles, please visit www.responsibleuse.org. This website has the latest version of the Principles, and useful information about biotech tree stewardship. You can also find a copy of the Principles at Amazon.com. Thank you for your interest in protecting the future of forests.