Scientist are attempting to grow trees that are faster growing and resistant to harmful insects.

The unknown as always with GMO's is cross pollination in the wild and the domino effect of that in the wild. Also it is unknown if benefical insects would be displaced or die when trying to live amoung the new GMO trees.

These new GMO trees would be grown for fuel, paper, and to regrow a forest quickly.

Here is a link that might be useful: Genetically modified arboriculture