Scientists are working diligently to help the majestic American Elm reign once again, after the tree was decimated by Dutch Elm Disease.
In this episode of Outdoor Radio, biologists Sara Zahendra and Kent McFarland of the Vermont Center for Ecostudies are in Plainfield at the foot of a disease-resistant elm. Scientists are taking branch clippings from 60 feet up to pair the buds with other resistant trees.
When these buds open in a few weeks, the pollen will be harvested and matched to other disease resistant trees. Look for disease-resistant American Elm varieties at nurseries near you.
Resources to learn more about the American Elm:
- American Elm facts
- Report your sightings of American Elm to iNaturalist Vermont
- See the iNaturalist map of all reported sightings
- More about Dutch Elm Disease
- More about Elm bark beetles
- The Nature Conservancy Vermont
Outdoor Radio is produced in collaboration with The Vermont Center For Ecostudies with support from Heritage Engineering in Weathersfield, Vermont.
