Title
Intellectual Property in the NRRI Hybrid Poplar Program – Inventory, Commercialization Plan, and Progress Report
Other titles
Natural Resources Research Institute Technical Report
Publisher
University of Minnesota Duluth
Abstract
Intellectual property in the NRRI hybrid poplar program was analyzed, and elite clones were prioritized
for plant patent applications to the USPTO. Clones were selected in two hybrid categories, Populus
deltoides x Populus nigra (D x N, DN) and Populus deltoides x Populus deltoides (D x D, DD). Positive traits
attributed to these clones include fast and stable growth, broad adaptability (geo-robustness), disease
resistance, good rooting ability, good vigor in stoolbeds (cutting orchards), and good performance in
phytoremediation applications. Six Generation 1.0 improved clones were selected for possible
patenting, four DN and two DD, out of 13,000 1st generation genotypes tested, a selection intensity of
0.0005 (0.05 %). Market size is discussed, a patent strategy is formulated, and a commercialization
action plan and timeline compiled. We are working with University of Minnesota Technology
Commercialization (TC) on a patenting and licensing evaluation. One improved DN clone has been
selected for initial commercialization, a one-page marketing flyer on the clone has been designed, and
selected private and public nurseries are being offered free cuttings of the selected clone for
propagation testing as a prelude to potential licensing.
Series/Report Number
NRRI Technical Report;
NRRI/TR-2021/07
Suggested Citation
Nelson, Neil D; Berguson, William E; McMahon, Bernard G; Jackson, Jeffrey; Buchman, Daniel; DuPlissis, John; White, Timothy W.
(2021).
Intellectual Property in the NRRI Hybrid Poplar Program – Inventory, Commercialization Plan, and Progress Report.
University of Minnesota Duluth.
Retrieved from the University of Minnesota Digital Conservancy,
https://hdl.handle.net/11299/218837.