Though the American chestnut tree was once a major part of the eastern United States landscape, it pretty much went extinct over a century ago on account of a deadly spread of fungus. Now, it’s 2024 and we have some good news for tree lovers in New York: Using cutting-edge genetic engineering practices, The State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry is working hard on repopulating the trees all throughout the state! For more information on the American chestnut tree in New York and the current repopulation efforts, keep reading.

Over a century ago, the American chestnut tree was a crucial part of the eastern United States. It produced a good nut crop each year, which was great for both humans and wildlife.
Schzmo/Wikimedia Commons
The nuts fed many people and the chestnut wood from the tree was utilized to erect flooring, fence posts, and telephones. It was a nasty fungus, though, that led to the trees extinction.
Arnold Arboretum of Harvard
The founders of the project to restore the American chestnut tree are Charles Maynard and William Powell, who were given a New York State Commendation Award for their efforts.
Vanvlitp/Wikimedia Commons

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According to Andy Newhouse, the current director of the project, the duo started working on chestnut trees around 1990. It’s been a slow process to create a genetically engineered solution to this problem.
The American Chestnut Foundation
As for the tree popping up in local neighborhoods, residents might have to wait a bit longer. The project has yet to receive federal regulatory approval.
Peatcher/Wikimedia Commons
According to Newhouse, the trees will start to circulate as early as later in the year.
Daderot/Wikimedia Commons

It’s always good news to hear that a beloved American tree is going to be coming back from the dead. This is a story still in progress, so we encourage everyone to follow the saga of the new American chestnut tree in New York and see where it goes next. Speaking of trees, we made a great list of nine amazing treetop adventures that you can only have in New York. And for those searching for the best supplies for some spring hiking adventures, we made a list for that, too.

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