Georgia First Chapter to Sponsor a Legacy Tree
Finally, here’s what we’ve been waiting for, our first seed orchard.
It began with a dream – that the American chestnut could be restored to our nation’s forest. Now that dream is taking root in The American Chestnut Foundation’s (TACF) first Legacy Tree seed orchard. The Georgia Chapter members proved their dedication to the restoration efforts by being the first to sponsor a Legacy Tree during TACF's 25th Anniversary year celebration.
At our research farms in Meadowview, Virginia this fall Dr. Fred Hebard, TACF’s lead scientist, selected the first 200 most blight-resistant 4 year old candidate trees from over 30,000 seeds. These special trees are the sixth generation of research work, the result of 25 years of backcross breeding. They are approximately 15/16 American chestnut and 1/16 Chinese chestnut. In a few years, seeds from this legacy tree orchard will be planted throughout the former chestnut range.
Now that our state chapter has reached its goal a plaque will be made that will note the Georgia Chapter and "Group Sponsored Tree". All nut distribution from this tree will be sole responsibility of the chapter's officers.
Many thanks to our contributors:
Ronnie Camp
Tim Chestnut
Marty Cipollini
Don Davis
Carolyn Hill
Mike Hinson
Ken McDonald
Tom Pachinger
Mary Belle Price
Jerry & Diane Smith
Mark Stoakes