Abstract
In connection with biodiversity that has recently become the topic, competition to secure biological genetic resources is being heightened all over the world. Korea also has a variety of efforts to secure and preserve plant genetic resources, and has recognized the importance of the function and role of arboretums. Arboretums in Korea, however, have the problems in terms of quality due to the rapid increase. One of the problems is shortages in experts who are essential for the proper functioning of arboretums. To solve the problem, the State introduced Gardener Training Program certification system and started to train gardeners. However, gardeners who have actually employed at arboretums are less than 20% and thus the problem of shortages in experts still exists. In this context, this study examined 44 registered arboretums in Korea to find out the current situation of experts; analyzed arboretum experts and the program certification system in view of relevant laws; and investigated the current situation of training programs being operated in three Gardener Training Program certification organizations. Finally, this study conducted a survey of 68 gardeners who completed the training program at Chollipo Arboretum and tried to suggest a plan for securing experts from the gardener training programs. The plan for utilizing the trained gardeners as experts in arboretums is as follows: First, legal standards for the employment of experts in arboretums should be strengthened. Second, it is necessary to evaluate training programs, in order to raise the reliability of arboretum experts' expertise. Third, official validity that can be honored in all arboretums should be granted to a certificate of program completion. Finally, networks of gardeners who completed the programs should be formed through follow-up management of them.