Tree Talk: April 10, 2018 – The Elm Recovery Project
The Elm Recovery Project at the University of
Guelph Arboretum
Many people today don’t recall the incredible canopy that the American elm (Ulmus americana) once produced over cities, rural roads and wild landscapes. With the introduction of Dutch elm disease into North America in the mid-twentieth century, hundreds of millions of elm trees were quickly killed – and the fungus continues to cause mortality in this species today.
There is hope. Some elms appear to tolerate infection and remain healthy into old age; they are the survivors. Since 1998, the University of Guelph Arboretum has been conducting the Elm Recovery Project to study and archive these special trees. Lovingly dubbed, ‘A Dating Service for Lonely Elms’ by CBC Radio, the Elm Recovery Project has been bringing these isolated survivors together while providing a helping hand on the path to seeing this majestic species tower over our Ontario landscapes once again.
About our Speaker
Sean Fox is an engaging and knowledgeable speaker and we are delighted he can join us.
He is the Arboretum Manager and Head Horticulturist at the University of Guelph Arboretum where he oversees more than 30 woody plant collections from around the world. During the past 17 years, Sean has dedicated a significant portion of his time to the Rare Woody Plants of Ontario Program and the Elm Recovery Project, both sited at The Arboretum. These plant conservation programs ultimately aim to help protect the unique genetics of Ontario’s threatened species.
- Date: Tuesday, April 10, 2018
- Time: 7:30 – 9 PM
- Location: Minarovich Gallery, Elora Arts Centre, 75 Melville Street, Elora
- Cost: Free for members, $5 everyone else