Jan. 19 presentation on bringing back the American chestnut tree will be at Posana in Asheville

Jason Sandford

Jason Sandford is a reporter, writer, blogger and photographer interested in all things Asheville.

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Press release here:

Asheville Green Drinks and The American Chestnut Foundation bring you

Forest Majesty: Bringing back the American chestnut tree

Wednesday, January 19 at Posana, 1 Biltmore Avenue

Socializing:  6:30 pm      

Presentation:  7:00 pm

On January 19 at 7:00 pm, Sarah Spooner of The American Chestnut Foundation will speak at Posana Restaurant on Pack Place about what the American chestnut tree once was, what it can be once again, and how we can help.

Early in the 20th century, chestnut blight disease virtually eliminated the American chestnut tree from its natural range in the eastern United States. Its loss was a huge blow to the Southern Appalachian forest ecosystem both culturally and economically.

Now, after more than 25 years of scientific research, The American Chestnut Foundation has begun test planting trees that are almost genetically identical to the former American chestnut, but which carry the genes that provide resistance to the chestnut blight.

The return of the chestnut tree would have a huge positive impact on the mountain forest and all of its inhabitants. The technical scientific work of reintroducing this tree is still in the testing stages and reintroduction will require a massive effort on our part to make this a truly successful endeavor.

Come hear the grand story of the American chestnut tree and learn how we might play an important role in the next chapter.  Visit www.acf.org for more information about the American chestnut. 

Contact Meghan Jordan at The American Chestnut Foundation for event details at [email protected] or (828) 713-9547.