In order to conserve and secure the genetic resources of the tree species European beech (Fagus sylvatica L.), an extensive project was carried out during 1991-1998. Initially the measures to be carried out were determined by setting up a concept including (1) the genetic inventory of stands to be examined and selected all over Rhineland-Palatinate; (2) sampling of leaf dormant buds and beech-nuts from mature trees selected according to a stand specific grid; (3) isozyme analysis of the dormant bud material; (4) phenological examination (flushing bonitur) of one- and two-year-old seedlings nursed from the collected beech-nuts; (5) evaluation of the data material; (6) selection of gene conservation stands according to specific criteria; (7) designating the gene conservation stands as experimental plots with protective state, and (8) determining the management conditions and restrictions. According to this procedure, 12 beech stands were secured as gene conservation objects representing the occurrences of the tree species European beech in Rhineland-Palatinate. This project may be considered as a pilot study for conserving the genetic resources also of other forest tree species.