Researchers from the USDA Forest Service Northern Research Station are conducting studies to gather more information on topics that include elm and ash experimental silviculture, breeding, and pest and pathogen management. The current results of this ongoing research effort, as well as insights into management of these trees and how communities are responding to their loss were presented at a two-day workshop.

The workshop brought together researchers and managers to share the latest information regarding the status and effects of the loss of elm and ash in forest ecosystems and explore a wide range of management responses for preservation, restoration, and ecosystem transformation. Presentations and discussions were used to share research findings, highlight management responses that have succeeded, consider obstacles, and identify promising areas of future inquiry. The information, issues, and solutions discussed at these workshops will inform the development of manager-focused resources as part of this project.

The workshop included visits to nearby field sites at Cylburn Arboretum and Stillmeadow Community Fellowship that demonstrate the breadth of management opportunities in ecosystems impacted by elm and/or ash species loss.

Over the course of both days, we:

• Explored promising new information and techniques
• Discussed operational obstacles to elm and ash management
• Identified gaps in understanding and management

Agenda

September 13-14: Baltimore, MD - Nature Education Center, Cylburn Arboretum

• September 13 at 8:30-5:00 (EST): Research and management presentations and facilitated discussion of obstacles and opportunities
• September 14 at 9:00-3:00 (EST): Field visits to treatment sites at Cylburn Arboretum and community restoration project at Stillmeadow Fellowship

More Information

This event was organized by the Northern Institute of Applied Climate Science, a collaborative, multi-institutional partnership led by the Forest Service. This research effort was supported by the USDA Forest Service, Research & Development through a project titled “Multidimensional strategies and tools to assess, prevent, and mitigate decline and loss of keystone tree species across the rural to urban continuum.” Many thanks to the Cylburn Arboretum for hosting this event, and to the Forest Service Baltimore Field Station for its support.

If you have questions, please email Mattison Brady