The American Chestnut Foundation (TACF) is initiating a range-wide search for surviving American chestnuts in the forest. GA-TACF is seeking to identify and conserve many new and unique sources — beyond the +/-200 already conserved in our Chapter.

Why?

• To conserve unique sources of American chestnut genetics in our Germplasm Conservation Orchards (GCOs).
• To create locally adapted and genetically di-verse populations of blight resistant chestnut trees for restoration.

Join our hunt for the American chestnut by first learning how to identify chestnuts here: Identifying American Chestnut Trees | The American Chestnut Foundation (tacf.org)

We don’t have the resources to visit all the reported sites to identify trees in person. We count on individuals to play the role of citizen scientist to collect samples and data on the American chestnut and related data.

Georgia Tree Locator Form
Follow the link above and download our Tree Locator Form. If you are unable to download and print the form, contact gachestnut@gmail.com and we will send you a paper copy. Got a smart phone? Check out the TreeSnap App. You can report information and share photos directly with us using this App. We will still require a sample. Be sure to include the treesnap id number when you mail it.

We will confirm the identity of your tree(s) and add them to our Dentatabase — a database of American chestnuts and related species. If the tree is a pure native, we may ask that you send us nuts for our breeding research. If it is not producing when you find it, don’t worry. We will send you a reminder, asking that you contribute nuts if you are able.

Collecting a sample:If you think you have an American chestnut tree, send us a freshly-cut 4-6 inch twig with mature leaves attached. Leaves should be from sunny exposure, if possible.

• Press leaves between pieces of cardboard to flatten and prevent curling or crushing as they dry. Crushed or bent leaves are harder to analyze, as are leaves that are not freshly collected.
• To prevent mold, do not put the sample into a plastic bag. Send in a paper envelope.
• Late Spring or summer is the best time to collect samples for identification purposes.
• Photographs can help with identification. We are not likely to be able to ID solely from a picture, but it can add to the whole package of understanding your tree.
• Please be sure to include the Tree Locator Form, so we can keep track of your sample and send you results. This form is vital for our inventory of wild trees.

Submit Sample With Tree Locator Form To:
Dr. Martin Cipollini
Berry College, Department of Biology
2277 Martha Berry Highway
Mount Berry, GA 30149

Field help – With over 200 orchard sites and about that many wild trees to track in GA, the growing season is packed with chances to participate in planting, inoculating and harvesting activities. Work is available for all levels of physical ability. This is a great opportunity for people who enjoy working outside and getting involved with the hands-on aspects of our breeding programs.

Event representation – Each year, we attend events all over the state. Members volunteer their time to represent our organization at fairs, expos, festivals, plant sales, etc. Larger events, like Hemlockfest are usually staffed by 2 or more volunteers at a time. These events offer great opportunities to learn the ropes from veteran volunteers.

Speaking events – We receive requests to speak at meetings and events nearly every week, for much of the year. Our volunteers help by agreeing to speak on our behalf, sharing their knowledge with community groups and organizations all over the state. If public speaking is your strength, this might be a good fit for you. This is a great opportunity for people that enjoy speaking in front of groups and sharing their knowledge and experiences with the American chestnut.

Other – If you have experience in marketing, web design, social media, writing, photography, or if you are able to network with like-minded groups, please contact us for some ideas about how you might contribute your unique talents. No experience is required!

How to get started – It’s easy! Email us at gachapter@tacf.org to learn more. With your permission, we will add your e-mail address to our contact list, so you will receive announcements about volunteer opportunities.

Watch your email, our webpage News, or follow us on Facebook for timely reminders.