Dennis and Lois Melican, known for their work in restoring the American chestnut tree, will share the remarkable story of this once-dominant species in Eastern forests, nearly wiped out by a devastating blight. Their presentation highlights the tree’s historical and ecological significance, the impact of the blight, and current restoration efforts. They will also discuss different approaches to revival, emphasizing the promise of traditional breeding methods over genetic engineering in bringing this iconic tree back to our landscapes. 

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