Reintroduction of American Chestnut in the National Forest System

Proceedings of the American elm restoration workshop 2016

“…Knowledge of these species characteristics are necessary to select appropriate silvicultural and site preparation strategies (Clark et al 2014). Test plantings of American chestnut have examined different planting methods and stock types in different climatic regions (Clark et al 2014). These experiments have been valuable in identifying barriers to survival and establishment, primarily involving white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) browsing, infection by the root-rot pathogen (Phytophthora cinnamomi), and insect damage, but also including damage from Pythium root rot and drought.…”

“…Understanding the social context guides the formulation of restoration planting goals and allows identification of policy, economic, or social barriers or constraints. Additional gaps in the ecological context, including seed zone testing, the incorporation of different sources of resistance, and combating invasive exotic insects were identified as areas for additional study (Clark et al 2014). The long-term impacts and dynamics of reintroduction on forest ecosystems were considered, including questions about how plantings including American chestnut would be managed over time and how the species may spread from plantings ( Jacobs 2007).…”

“…These experiments have been valuable in identifying barriers to survival and establishment, primarily involving white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) browsing, infection by the root-rot pathogen (Phytophthora cinnamomi), and insect damage, but also including damage from Pythium root rot and drought. Planting high quality stock may be an important approach for overcoming these barriers (Clark et al 2014). Researchers have identified pathways by which abiotic environmental conditions will affect biotic factors, including deer, disease, and insect damage, which will interact with the genetic makeup and the quality of tree seedlings to ultimately affect performance in the field (Clark et al 2014).…”

“…Planting high quality stock may be an important approach for overcoming these barriers (Clark et al 2014). Researchers have identified pathways by which abiotic environmental conditions will affect biotic factors, including deer, disease, and insect damage, which will interact with the genetic makeup and the quality of tree seedlings to ultimately affect performance in the field (Clark et al 2014). …”

“…Knowledge of these species characteristics are necessary to select appropriate silvicultural and site preparation strategies (Clark et al 2014). Test plantings of American chestnut have examined different planting methods and stock types in different climatic regions (Clark et al 2014).…”