American chestnut trees accounted for a large portion of forest specimens pre-1900’s.  Once a pathogen was introduced to American chestnut trees due to the importing of Japanese chestnut trees, American chestnut trees began to disappear.  Since the decline of these majestic beauties communities and scientists have teamed up to create organizations to preserve, protect and bring awareness to the amazing American chestnut trees!

(Credit Vicky Sawyer)

The Tallest American Chestnut Tree in North America

The tallest American chestnut tree in North America is rooted in Maine and is 115 feet tall.  This amazing discovery prompted members of the American Chestnut Foundation to visit the tree and gather information.  Forest scientist Brian Roth estimated the American chestnut tree to be around a century old after examining the specimen.

via Susan Sharon MPBN

Scientists have sampled DNA from this tall American chestnut tree to preserve in a living gene bank; information gathered will assist in research to restore the chestnut to its historic range.  Read more about the tallest American chestnut tree in North America via NPR here.

The American Chestnut Foundation

Committed to the conservation, protection and expansion of America’s forests since 1990, The American Chestnut Foundation has planted more than 45 million trees!  The American Chestnut Foundation has also replanted forests destroyed by both human action and natural disasters.