BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//The American Chestnut Foundation - ECPv6.17.4//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-WR-CALNAME:The American Chestnut Foundation X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://tacf.org X-WR-CALDESC:Events for The American Chestnut Foundation REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/New_York BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20240310T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20241103T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20250309T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20251102T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20260308T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20261101T060000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/Chicago BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20240310T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20241103T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20250309T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20251102T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20260308T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20261101T070000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250126T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250126T120000 DTSTAMP:20250121T211309Z CREATED:20250121T211309Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250121T211309Z UID:10002030-1737882000-1737892800@tacf.org SUMMARY:MA/RI-TACF Winter 2025 Quarterly Meeting DESCRIPTION:Winter Quarterly Board Meeting (Zoom only)\nSunday\, January 26th 2025\n9AM-12PM\nhttps://us02web.zoom.us/j/86315010960 \nMeeting ID: 863 1501 0960\nPasscode: 1904 \nHappy New Year! All are welcome.\nPlease send agenda items to Kathy. \n  URL:https://tacf.org/event/ma-ri-tacf-winter-2025-quarterly-meeting/ LOCATION:NY CATEGORIES:Massachusetts / Rhode Island,The American Chestnut Foundation ORGANIZER;CN="Kathy Desjardin":MAILTO:marichapter@tacf.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250220T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250223T173000 DTSTAMP:20250114T162426Z CREATED:20250114T155950Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250114T162426Z UID:10002027-1740045600-1740331800@tacf.org SUMMARY:CT-TACF at the CT Flower and Garden Show DESCRIPTION:This year again\, the CT Chapter will be at the CT Flower and Garden Show. Stop by our table in the CT Federated Garden exhibit to see the work of the Foundation. \nFree entry will be provided for volunteers who will help us at the table during the week. Email us at CTChapter@tacf.org if you can help! URL:https://tacf.org/event/ct-tacf-at-the-hartford-flower-and-garden-show/ LOCATION:Connecticut Convention Center\, 100 Columbus Blvd\, Hartford\, CT\, 06103\, United States CATEGORIES:Connecticut,The American Chestnut Foundation ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://tacf.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Screenshot-2024-02-02-at-3.33.53-PM.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250221T113000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250221T130000 DTSTAMP:20250218T183637Z CREATED:20250123T214435Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250218T183637Z UID:10002031-1740137400-1740142800@tacf.org SUMMARY:Chestnut Chat: A Half-Century of Recovery Efforts for the Endangered Virginia Round-leaf Birch DESCRIPTION:Join us on Friday\, February 21\, 2025\, from 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM (Eastern)\, for the next LIVE Chestnut Chat. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Special guest Dr. Terry Sharik\, Research Professor at the Michigan Tech School of Forest Resources and Environmental Science (bio)\, will provide an overview of efforts aimed at the recovery of the endangered Virginia round-leaf birch (Betula uber) over the past half century. \nTACF’s work with the American chestnut resonates across ecosystem and species restoration efforts nationally and worldwide. Saving imperiled trees takes many forms scientifically\, logistically\, organizationally\, and culturally. While all of these efforts proceed ‘on tree time’\, unique motivations for the trees’ return\, their public appeal\, and how this work carries on across generations is unique to each species. We invite you to join us in learning about a rare and endemic Appalachian tree — the Virginia round-leaf birch (Betula uber) — as a fascinating example of opportunities for cross-species lessons as we continue on our path toward American chestnut restoration. \nWhile B. uber does not currently contend with any lethal specialist pathogens and does not claim an ethnobotanical niche similar to chestnut\, its story is one of multi-decadal resilience\, dwindling remnant populations\, gene inheritance tracking\, propagation challenges\, and other aspects that will be familiar to chestnut enthusiasts. Dr. Terry Sharik will also highlight progeny test and reintroduction population work\, as well as silvicultural treatments\, toward population fecundity and fitness assessments which are currently advanced beyond the data available in American chestnut reintroduction. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dr. Sharik will address six major areas specified in the recovery plan\, the first for a plant under the Endangered Species Act of 1973. These include: (1) maintenance and expansion of the natural population; (2) establishment of (self-sustaining) additional populations in the wild;  (3) continued searches for other natural populations; (4) determination of systematic relationships with other birch species; (5) retention of existing germplasm through cultivation; and (6) implementation of educational programs. Background reading for the presentation can be found in Virginia Forests magazine. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n HOW TO PARTICIPATE (via Zoom Webinar) \nPre-registration is required to attend this event. Pre-register here. After registering you will receive a unique URL link to join the event on the day of the chat. You can also add the event to your calendar from the webinar registration approval page. The meeting will open 15 minutes prior to the start time to allow an audio and video test. \n \n Pre-Register Here URL:https://tacf.org/event/chestnut-chat-recovery-efforts-virginia-round-leaf-birch/ LOCATION:NY CATEGORIES:Chestnut Chat,The American Chestnut Foundation ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://tacf.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/round-leaf-birch-progeny-by-terry-sharik.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250301 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250502 DTSTAMP:20250306T201755Z CREATED:20250303T184151Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250306T201755Z UID:10002039-1740787200-1746143999@tacf.org SUMMARY:Maine Wild-Type Seed Sale DESCRIPTION:Order Maine seeds online from March 1 through May 1 for $4 each\, shipping included. Minimum order is 5 seeds. No maximum. Seeds ordered in March will be mailed via USPS no later than April 10\, possibly sooner. April orders will be mailed by or before May 10. \nVisit the Maine Seed Sales page for more information. URL:https://tacf.org/event/maine-wild-type-seed-sale/ LOCATION:NY CATEGORIES:Maine END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250301T093000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250301T150000 DTSTAMP:20250206T171455Z CREATED:20250206T171455Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250206T171455Z UID:10002033-1740821400-1740841200@tacf.org SUMMARY:TN-TACF 2025 Chapter Meeting and Seedling Distribution DESCRIPTION:Date: Saturday March 1st 2025 \nTime: 9:30AM – 3:00PM Central Time (CT) \nLocation: Tennessee Tech University \nW. Clyde Hyder-Tommy Burks Agricultural Pavilion \n2390 Gainesboro Grade \nCookeville\, TN 38501 \nThe Tennessee Chapter is excited to host our next annual meeting at Tennessee Tech University! This meeting includes opportunities to hear from TACF staff\, TN board members\, and researchers about all things chestnut including the latest and greatest in chestnut science and outreach. \nAt lunch we will host a chestnut seedling distribution event. \nThese seedlings will be hybrids derived from TACF’s backcross breeding program with varying levels of American heritage and resistance. We will ask for a donation for each set of trees to go to the TN-TACF chapter. Information on how to grow and maintain chestnuts will be provided along with the seedlings. TN-TACF board members will be on hand to help explain our breeding program\, and to accept new membership applications ($40 per year). \nWe will end the meeting with a tour of the longtime chestnut orchard on the campus of Tennessee Tech. Come see chestnut breeding in action! \nRSVP Here \nRegistration required: RSVP by 2/26/25 \nCost: FREE\, but please consider making a donation of $25 to the Tennessee Chapter of the American Chestnut Foundation (TN-TACF) if you can to cover lunch (cash or checks). You can also sign up and pay for a new or renewing membership at the meeting. URL:https://tacf.org/event/tn-tacf-2025-chapter-meeting-and-seedling-distribution/ LOCATION:Hyder-Burke Agricultural Pavilion\, 2390 Gainesboro Grade\, Cookeville\, TN\, 38501\, United States CATEGORIES:Tennessee,The American Chestnut Foundation END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250307T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250307T150000 DTSTAMP:20250305T185902Z CREATED:20250303T192110Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250305T185902Z UID:10002041-1741338000-1741359600@tacf.org SUMMARY:VA - Orchard Maintenance at Sky Meadows State Park DESCRIPTION:Join us at Sky Meadows State Park for annual chestnut orchard maintenance on Friday\, March 7 from 9 am to 3pm. We look forward to seeing you there! \nCome prepared to work in field or forest conditions; wear appropriate clothing and solid closed-toe shoes (no crocs\, sorry!)\, bring gloves\, a hat\, sunscreen\, bug spray\, water\, and a snack. \nPlease register here. URL:https://tacf.org/event/va-maintenance-sky-meadows/ LOCATION:Sky Meadows State Park\, 11012 Edmonds Ln\, Markham\, VA\, 22643\, United States CATEGORIES:The American Chestnut Foundation,Virginia ORGANIZER;CN="VA Chapter of The American Chestnut Foundation":MAILTO:VaChapter@tacf.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250308T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250308T150000 DTSTAMP:20250305T185805Z CREATED:20250303T191823Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250305T185805Z UID:10002040-1741424400-1741446000@tacf.org SUMMARY:VA - Orchard Maintenance at Banshee Reeks DESCRIPTION:Join us at Banshee Reeks Nature Preserve for our annual chestnut orchard maintenance on Saturday\, March 8 from 9 am to 3 pm. We can’t wait to see you there! \nCome prepared to work in field or forest conditions; wear appropriate clothing and solid closed-toe shoes (no crocs\, sorry!)\, bring gloves\, a hat\, sunscreen\, bug spray\, water\, and a snack. \nPlease register here. URL:https://tacf.org/event/va-orchard-maintenance-at-banshee-reeks/ LOCATION:Banshee Reeks Nature Preserve\, 21085 The Woods Rd\, Leesburg\, VA\, 20175\, United States CATEGORIES:The American Chestnut Foundation,Virginia ORGANIZER;CN="VA Chapter of The American Chestnut Foundation":MAILTO:VaChapter@tacf.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250315T093000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250315T233000 DTSTAMP:20250213T172534Z CREATED:20250213T172534Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250213T172534Z UID:10002036-1742031000-1742081400@tacf.org SUMMARY:VA - Nut Grafting Workshop DESCRIPTION:Learn the basics behind grafting and practice yourself at the Bedford County Virginia Cooperative Extension Building\, with\, Jared Quesenberry\, on Saturday\, March\, 15th. \nApart from grafting\, there will be time to meet with fellow chestnut enthusiasts and citizen scientists! \nJared Quesenberry will be demonstrating techniques to graft American chestnut scion onto germinated nut rootstock. In particular\, he will show hypocotyl and epicotyl nut graft techniques. We hope that others will also exchange ideas and their methods. Jared plans to bring supplies to allow each participant the opportunity to do their own grafting. If you have a grafting knife or scion wood you have collected\, feel free to bring it. \nParticipation will be capped at 20 participants so please RSVP here. URL:https://tacf.org/event/va-nut-grafting-workshop/ LOCATION:Bedford Cooperative Extension Office (Peaks Room)\, 1257 County Farm Road\, Bedford\, VA\, 24523\, United States CATEGORIES:The American Chestnut Foundation,Virginia ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://tacf.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/VA-grafted-american-chestnuts.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Jared Quesenberry":MAILTO:jared.quesenberry@gmail.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250318T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250318T090000 DTSTAMP:20250115T200843Z CREATED:20250115T192635Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250115T200843Z UID:10002029-1742288400-1742288400@tacf.org SUMMARY:Annual Wild-Type Seed Sale DESCRIPTION:The extremely popular Annual Wild-Type American Chestnut Seed Sale starts at 9 AM on March 18! \nThis sale is only open to members of The American Chestnut Foundation. You must be a current member as of March 1st to be eligible. \nFor more information\, visit the Seeds page! URL:https://tacf.org/event/annual-wild-type-seed-sale/ LOCATION:NY CATEGORIES:The American Chestnut Foundation ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://tacf.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/American-chestnut-seeds-400.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250320 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250323 DTSTAMP:20250115T190204Z CREATED:20250115T185835Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250115T190204Z UID:10002028-1742428800-1742687999@tacf.org SUMMARY:TACF Annual Spring Board Meeting 2025 DESCRIPTION:The American Chestnut Foundation’s Annual Spring Meeting 2025 will be held at the Southwest Virginia Education Center in Abingdon\, VA from Thursday\, March 20th through Saturday\, March 22nd. (Attendance iby invitation only.) \nStay tuned for more info. URL:https://tacf.org/event/tacf-annual-spring-meeting-2025/ LOCATION:Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center\, Abingdon\, VA\, 1 Partnership Circle\, Abingdon\, VA\, 24210 CATEGORIES:The American Chestnut Foundation END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250326T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250326T200000 DTSTAMP:20250326T164010Z CREATED:20250326T163457Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250326T164010Z UID:10002047-1743015600-1743019200@tacf.org SUMMARY:WV- Elkins Tree Board monthly meeting DESCRIPTION:This 45-minute talk will cover history of American chestnut and efforts toward restoration. URL:https://tacf.org/event/elkins-tree-board-monthly-meeting/ LOCATION:Kump Education Center\, 401 Randolph Ave\, Elkins\, WV\, United States CATEGORIES:The American Chestnut Foundation,West Virginia END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250328T113000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250328T130000 DTSTAMP:20250226T183904Z CREATED:20250226T183527Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250226T183904Z UID:10002038-1743161400-1743166800@tacf.org SUMMARY:Chestnut Chat: How American Chestnut Hybrids Interact with Their Environment DESCRIPTION:Join us on Friday\, March 28\, 2025\, from 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM (Eastern)\, for the next LIVE Chestnut Chat. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Special guests Dr. Camila Filgueiras\, Assistant Professor of Biology at UNC Asheville\, and Dr. Jonathan Horton\, Professor and Chair of Biology at UNC Asheville\, will discuss their research into the ecological interactions between American chestnut hybrids and their environment\, with a focus on insect communities and soil biodiversity. \nThe American chestnut (Castanea dentata) once dominated eastern North American forests but was nearly eradicated by chestnut blight (Cryphonectria parasitica). Hybridization efforts offer hope for restoring this iconic species\, yet their ecological impacts remain largely unexplored. This seminar\, led by an entomologist and a forest ecologist\, will present groundbreaking research on how American chestnut hybrids interact with their environment\, focusing on insect diversity\, herbivory\, soil biodiversity\, and plant physiology. Our findings reveal that different hybrid types support distinct insect communities\, influencing forest food webs and pollination dynamics. Soil biodiversity assessments indicate that hybrid stands may enhance belowground ecosystem function\, while physiological analyses highlight their adaptive potential—especially under environmental stress. The research also provides valuable insights into how hybrid chestnuts compare to their purebred ancestors\, with some hybrids showing promising resilience traits while others more closely resemble the pre-blight American chestnut. Beyond its scientific contributions\, this project has provided hands-on learning experiences for students\, fostering the next generation of researchers and conservationists. Funded in part by The American Chestnut Foundation\, the research has led to conference presentations\, peer-reviewed publications\, and a deeper appreciation for the cultural and ecological significance of chestnut restoration. Join us as we bridge research\, education\, and real-world application to bring the American chestnut back to our forests. Whether you’re a scientist\, grower\, or simply passionate about conservation\, this discussion will explore how hybridization can shape the future of forest restoration. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n HOW TO PARTICIPATE (via Zoom Webinar) \nPre-registration is required to attend this event. Pre-register here. After registering you will receive a unique URL link to join the event on the day of the chat. You can also add the event to your calendar from the webinar registration approval page. The meeting will open 15 minutes prior to the start time to allow an audio and video test. \n \n Pre-Register Here\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Presenters\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dr. Camila Filgueiras\, Assistant Professor of Biology at UNC Asheville \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dr. Jonathan Horton\, Professor and Chair of Biology at UNC Asheville URL:https://tacf.org/event/chestnut-chat-how-american-chestnut-hybrids-interact-with-their-environment/ LOCATION:NY CATEGORIES:Chestnut Chat,The American Chestnut Foundation ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://tacf.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Red-spotted-purple-butterfly-on-an-American-chestnut-hybrid-1200.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250329T110000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250329T120000 DTSTAMP:20250114T160150Z CREATED:20250114T155227Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250114T160150Z UID:10002026-1743246000-1743249600@tacf.org SUMMARY:CT-TACF Presentation on The Restoration of the American Chestnut sponsored by the Woodbury Shade Tree and Sidewalk Committee DESCRIPTION:The American chestnut was a reliable provider of food and shelter for wildlife as well as Native and Early Americans until an introduced blight fungus decimated the species in the early 20th century.  Learn about the history of the American chestnut\, it’s decline and the efforts currently underway to try and restore this keystone species back to the forests of Connecticut. \nThis event is organized in partnership with the The Woodbury Shade Tree & Sidewalk Committee.  The Woodbury Shade Tree & Sidewalk Committee supports the community by planting trees in public spaces\, educating residents about trees and their care\, and advocating for improved pedestrian walkways. \nReservations are required to attend and can be made at this website https://woodburylibraryct.libcal.com/event/13890350 URL:https://tacf.org/event/ct-tacf-presentation-on-the-restoration-of-the-american-chestnut-sponsored-by-the-woodbury-shade-tree-and-sidewalk-committee/ LOCATION:Woodbury Public Library\, 269 Main St S\, Woodbury\, CT\, 06798\, United States CATEGORIES:Connecticut,The American Chestnut Foundation END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250402T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250402T160000 DTSTAMP:20250326T163027Z CREATED:20250326T161533Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250326T163027Z UID:10002046-1743588000-1743609600@tacf.org SUMMARY:VA - Whitney Planting DESCRIPTION:Come plant bareroot chestnuts with us at Whitney State Forest. We will start at 10am and we have 400 trees to plant. Please note this planting takes place on uneven terrain and is a forest planting rather than an orchard planting. Wear appropriate shoes\, bring water\, lunch\, and gloves if preferred.\nLocation is at Whitney State Forest. (map) Meet us in the parking lot.\n \n\nEmail or call Cassie Stark with questions cassie.stark@tacf.org\, 540-217-6915. \nPlease register for the event here. URL:https://tacf.org/event/va-whitney-planting/ LOCATION:Whitney State Forest\, Lees Ridge Rd (Rt 684)\, Warrenton\, VA\, United States CATEGORIES:The American Chestnut Foundation,Virginia ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://tacf.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Cumberland-VA.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Cassie Stark":MAILTO:cassie.stark@tacf.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250405T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250405T140000 DTSTAMP:20250401T230217Z CREATED:20250114T152824Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250401T230217Z UID:10002025-1743843600-1743861600@tacf.org SUMMARY:CT-TACF 2025 Annual Meeting DESCRIPTION:The Annual Meeting of the CT-TACF Chapter will be held on Saturday\, April 5th at 9:00AM.  \nJoin us at 9:00 AM for a social hour with coffee and confections.  The Annual Membership meeting will start at 10:00 AM\, followed by a chestnut relavant lecture.  This year’s featured guest speaker will be CT Agricultural Experiment Station Scientist Susanna Kerio\, who will give a presentation on Biological Control of Chestnut Blight with the Hypovirulence Virus. Lunch will be provided to all attendees.  Let us know if you have any allergy or dietary restrictions. \nThe Board of Directors meeting will follow the presentation after a short lunch break. \nZoom access for those who cannot attend in person will also be provided.  For any questions or request for the Zoom link\, please contact us at tacf.ctchapter@gmail.com. \nThe agenda can be found at this link: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1_Cp_emL9TVNmVVBtVQA-vfYoy7cUVRZf/edit URL:https://tacf.org/event/ct-tacf-2024-annual-meeting/ LOCATION:CT Forest & Park Association’s headquarters\, 16 Meriden Road\, Rockfall\, CT\, 06481\, United States CATEGORIES:Connecticut,The American Chestnut Foundation ORGANIZER;CN="Jack Swatt":MAILTO:jswattchestnut@gmail.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250405T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250405T140000 DTSTAMP:20250313T184130Z CREATED:20250313T184130Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250313T184130Z UID:10002045-1743843600-1743861600@tacf.org SUMMARY:VA Chapter at Spring Native Plant Sale DESCRIPTION:TACF’s VA Chapter will host a booth at the Spring Native Plant Sale held at Morven Park\, 17195 Southern Planter Ln\, Leesburg\, VA 20176 on April 5\, 2025\, 9 AM-2 PM. For more information about the sale\, visit the Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy site URL:https://tacf.org/event/va-chapter-at-spring-native-plant-sale/ LOCATION:Morven Park\, 17195 Southern Planter Ln\, Leesburg\, VA\, 20176\, United States CATEGORIES:The American Chestnut Foundation,Virginia END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250405T093000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250405T140000 DTSTAMP:20250404T212342Z CREATED:20250330T011339Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250404T212342Z UID:10002051-1743845400-1743861600@tacf.org SUMMARY:MA/RI-TACF Spring 2025 Quarterly Meeting DESCRIPTION:2025 Spring Quarterly Meeting (hybrid)\nDate: Saturday\, April 5\, 2025\nLocation: Waters Farm and online (Zoom link is below)\nTime: 9:30am – 2pm \nAll are welcome! RSVP to Kathy\nLunch: brown bag with snacks provided\nAgenda coming soon – please send agenda items to Kathy \nTime: Apr 5\, 2025 09:30 AM Eastern Time – 2pm \nJoin Zoom Meeting: \nhttps://us02web.zoom.us/j/81075754895 \nMeeting ID: 810 7575 4895\nPasscode: 1904 \n— \nOne tap mobile \n+19292056099\,\,81075754895#\,\,\,\,*1904# US (New York) \n+16469313860\,\,81075754895#\,\,\,\,*1904# US \n— \nDial by your location \n\n+1 929 205 6099 US (New York) URL:https://tacf.org/event/ma-ri-tacf-spring-2025-quarterly-meeting-online/ LOCATION:Waters Farm in Sutton\, MA\, 53 Waters Rd.\, Sutton\, MA\, 01590\, United States CATEGORIES:Massachusetts / Rhode Island,The American Chestnut Foundation ORGANIZER;CN="Kathy Desjardin":MAILTO:marichapter@tacf.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250405T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250405T150000 DTSTAMP:20250331T165349Z CREATED:20250327T171404Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250331T165349Z UID:10002050-1743858000-1743865200@tacf.org SUMMARY:WV Chapter Meeting DESCRIPTION:We invite you to attend the West Virginia Chapter of The American Chestnut Foundation’s spring meeting to learn more about the story of the American chestnut and our efforts to restore this iconic tree to our forests.\nThe meeting begins at 1:00 pm\, Saturday\, April 5 at the Mineral County Technical Center\, located at 981 Harley O Staggers Drive in Keyser\, West Virginia. We hope you’ll join us! URL:https://tacf.org/event/wv-chapter-meeting/ LOCATION:Mineral County Technical Center\, 981 Harley O Staggers Dr\, Keyser\, WV\, 26726\, United States CATEGORIES:The American Chestnut Foundation,West Virginia ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://tacf.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Open-bur-of-an-American-chestnut-1200.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250418T113000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250418T130000 DTSTAMP:20250403T023345Z CREATED:20250401T182004Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250403T023345Z UID:10002052-1744975800-1744981200@tacf.org SUMMARY:Chestnut Chat: Chestnut Growers Town Hall DESCRIPTION:Chestnut Growers Town Hall: An Open Forum about American Chestnut Growing and Restoration\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Join us on Friday\, April 18\, 2025\, from 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM (Eastern)\, for the next LIVE Chestnut Chat. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Got questions about growing chestnuts? Or maybe you have a tip to share? Join us for the Chestnut Growers Town Hall\, where we’ll explore the ins and outs of American chestnut cultivation. Whether you’re an experienced grower or just starting out\, this event is a great opportunity to connect with others\, share insights\, and learn from experts. The open Q&A format will allow you to ask any questions you may have about growing American chestnuts. Learn about site selection\, soil nutrition\, varmint control\, spacing considerations\, and anything else on your mind. \nOur event will feature an expert panel ready to answer your questions. Between the open Q&A sessions\, the panelists will also present their favorite growing secrets\, offering valuable insights throughout the webinar. Join us for the discussion and be part of the community dedicated to American chestnut restoration! \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n HOW TO PARTICIPATE (via Zoom Webinar) \nPre-registration is required to attend this event. Pre-register here. After registering you will receive a unique URL link to join the event on the day of the chat. You can also add the event to your calendar from the webinar registration approval page. The meeting will open 15 minutes prior to the start time to allow an audio and video test. \n \n Pre-Register Here URL:https://tacf.org/event/chestnut-chat-chestnut-growers-town-hall/ LOCATION:NY CATEGORIES:Chestnut Chat,The American Chestnut Foundation ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://tacf.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/volunteers-planting-american-chestnut-seedling-asheville-1200.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250420T110000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250420T160000 DTSTAMP:20250207T155622Z CREATED:20250207T155622Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250207T155622Z UID:10002035-1745146800-1745164800@tacf.org SUMMARY:South Carolina Hemlock Festival DESCRIPTION:The South Carolina Hemlock Festival will be held in Mountain Rest\, SC at 175 Verner Mill Road on April 20\, 2024. The time will be 11 am to 4 pm. We will be doing Hemlock Woolly Adelgid awareness presentations hourly all day. There will be crafts\, music\, food\, and conservation groups there.\n\nTACF will set up a table and pop-up shelter to present our outreach materials. URL:https://tacf.org/event/south-carolina-hemlock-festival/ LOCATION:Mountain Rest\, 175 Verner Mill Road\, Mountain Rest\, SC\, 29664\, United States CATEGORIES:Carolinas,The American Chestnut Foundation END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250422T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250422T130000 DTSTAMP:20250326T164842Z CREATED:20250326T164453Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250326T164842Z UID:10002048-1745323200-1745326800@tacf.org SUMMARY:WV - Charleston Talk DESCRIPTION:This 45-minute talk will cover history of American chestnut and restoration efforts. Free and open to the public. URL:https://tacf.org/event/wv-charleston-talk/ LOCATION:Former Columbia Gas Building\, 1700 MacCorkle Ave SE\, Charleston\, WV\, 25314\, United States CATEGORIES:The American Chestnut Foundation,West Virginia ORGANIZER;CN="WV Chapter":MAILTO:wvchapter@tacf.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250426T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250426T160000 DTSTAMP:20250408T203536Z CREATED:20250408T203536Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250408T203536Z UID:10002053-1745661600-1745683200@tacf.org SUMMARY:Mountain Science Expo 2025- NC Arboretum DESCRIPTION:The North Carolina/South Carolina Chapter will have displays and activities at the Mountain Science Expo. Saturday\, April 26\, 2025 from 10am to 4pm. Come see us! \n  URL:https://tacf.org/event/mountain-science-expo-2025-nc-arboretum/ LOCATION:NC Arboretum\, 100 Frederick Law Olmsted Way\, Asheville\, NC\, 28806\, United States CATEGORIES:Carolinas,The American Chestnut Foundation END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250426T103000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250426T143000 DTSTAMP:20250125T155622Z CREATED:20250125T155321Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250125T155622Z UID:10002032-1745663400-1745677800@tacf.org SUMMARY:Maryland Chapter Spring Meeting DESCRIPTION:Maryland Chapter Spring Meeting \nThe Spring meeting of The Maryland Chapter of the American Chestnut\nFoundation will be at the Gaithersburg Library\, Meeting Room 3 on Saturday\,\nApril 26\, from 10:30 – 2:30.  The meeting is free and open to the public. \nThe meeting will begin with an update on the TACF chestnut restoration program.\nOur featured speaker will be Donald Edward Davis\, scholar\, former Fulbright\nfellow\, and author of The American Chestnut\, An Environmental History. The\nAmerican Chestnut tells the story of the American Chestnut from Native \nAmerican prehistory through present day efforts to restore the American\nChestnut to its former place in the eastern deciduous forest. \nYou do not want to miss this presentation and discussion. \nClick here to register   Or you can email us at MDTACF@outlook.com. Please include your full name.  Registering will ensure we have adequate space. \n  URL:https://tacf.org/event/maryland-chapter-spring-meeting-5/ LOCATION:Gaithersburg Regional Library\, 18330 Montgomery Village Ave\, Gaithersburg\, MD\, United States CATEGORIES:Maryland,The American Chestnut Foundation END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250426T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250426T150000 DTSTAMP:20250326T165851Z CREATED:20250326T165549Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250326T165851Z UID:10002049-1745672400-1745679600@tacf.org SUMMARY:VA - Earth Day chestnut tree planting Smith Mountain Lake DESCRIPTION:Smith Mountain Lake State Park will celebrate Earth Day with a planting of chestnut trees. Read event info here. URL:https://tacf.org/event/va-earth-day-chestnut-tree-planting-smith-mountain-lake/ LOCATION:Smith Mountain Lake State Park\, 1235 State Park Rd\, Huddleston\, VA\, 24104\, United States CATEGORIES:The American Chestnut Foundation,Virginia ORGANIZER;CN="Ranger Jet%2C Smith Mtn Lake State Park":MAILTO:jeanette.lawler@dcr.virginia.gov END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250426T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250426T160000 DTSTAMP:20250306T191419Z CREATED:20250306T190604Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250306T191419Z UID:10002042-1745672400-1745683200@tacf.org SUMMARY:Maine TACF Annual Meeting at Viles Arboretum in Augusta DESCRIPTION:Join us for the Maine TACF Annual Meeting April 26 at Viles Arboretum in Augusta!\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n All are welcome and encouraged to attend the annual meeting of the Maine Chapter of The American Chestnut Foundation on Saturday\, April 26 at 1:00 PM at Viles Arboretum (153 Hospital St\, Augusta\, ME). Chapter officers Mark McCollough and Eva Butler will give a presentation on Chestnuts Across Maine\, an exciting new chapter initiative to plant chestnut trees at schools\, conservation partners\, and land trusts across Maine. We will have a brief election of board members for the coming year. Chestnut seeds and seedlings will be available for sale (see information about sales elsewhere in the newsletter). Afterward\, we will take a field trip to Readfield\, Maine (about 45 minutes away) to visit one of Maine’s largest surviving chestnut trees. Join us in a family-fun event. We look forward to seeing you. What better way to celebrate Arbor Day!!!\n \nHere is the slate of board members for the April 26 annual meeting. All have served on the board three years or longer. We greatly appreciate their dedication to restoring the American chestnut: \n\n\n\nDavid Allen\, Portland\nEric Evans\, Camden\nAlbert Faust\, Winterport\nNina Pearlmutter\, Kennebunkport URL:https://tacf.org/event/maine-tacf-annual-meeting-at-viles-arboretum-in-augusta/ LOCATION:Viles Arboretum\, 153 Hospital Street\, Augusta\, Maine\, 04330 CATEGORIES:Maine,The American Chestnut Foundation ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://tacf.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/ME-40th-annual-meeting-2023.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Maine Chapter TACF":MAILTO:mechapter@tacf.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250515T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250515T150000 DTSTAMP:20250513T184602Z CREATED:20250417T163755Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250513T184602Z UID:10002056-1747303200-1747321200@tacf.org SUMMARY:VA - Planting at Cumberland State Forest DESCRIPTION:Join us at Cumberland State Forest to plant 250 hybrid chestnut trees on May 15th! Planting location is behind the main office in a field to the left if you are facing the office. Wear closed toe shoes\, bring water\, sunscreen\, bug spray\, and lunch. We look forward to planting with you! \nSpots are limited\, sign up here to volunteer. URL:https://tacf.org/event/va-planting-at-cumberland-state-forest/ LOCATION:Cumberland State Forest Office\, 751 Oak Hill Rd\, Cumberland\, VA\, 23040\, United States CATEGORIES:The American Chestnut Foundation,Virginia ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://tacf.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Cumberland-VA-chestnut-orchard.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Cassie Stark":MAILTO:cassie.stark@tacf.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250516T113000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250516T130000 DTSTAMP:20250429T182614Z CREATED:20250429T180942Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250429T182614Z UID:10002057-1747395000-1747400400@tacf.org SUMMARY:Chestnut Chat: Beetle Evolution and the Rediscovery of the Greater Chestnut Weevil DESCRIPTION:Beetle Evolution and the Rediscovery of the Greater Chestnut Weevil\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Join us on Friday\, May 16\, 2025\, from 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM (Eastern)\, for the next LIVE Chestnut Chat.\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Special guests Professor Duane McKenna and PhD candidate Michael Charles from the University of Memphis will discuss beetle evolution and the rediscovery of a lost species\, the greater chestnut weevil. In the 1900s\, an invasive fungal disease wiped out the American chestnut tree and caused many of the insects that depended on it to disappear or die out. One of those insects\, the greater chestnut weevil\, which was last seen in 1997\, was thought to be extinct. But photos posted online in 2022 and 2023 suggest that this weevil might still be alive in at least two places. Over the past 20 years\, scientists have used DNA studies to better understand how beetles are related and how they evolved over time. These studies have cleared up old disagreements about beetle relationships\, shown that beetles first appeared during the Carboniferous period\, and supported the idea that beetles and flowering plants evolved together. Researchers also discovered that beetles got some useful genes from bacteria and fungi\, which helped plant-eating beetles—especially groups like leaf beetles\, longhorn beetles\, weevils\, and metallic wood-boring beetles—diversify during the Mesozoic era. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n HOW TO PARTICIPATE (via Zoom Webinar) \nPre-registration is required to attend this event. Pre-register here. After registering you will receive a unique URL link to join the event on the day of the chat. You can also add the event to your calendar from the webinar registration approval page. The meeting will open 15 minutes prior to the start time to allow an audio and video test. \n \n Pre-Register Here\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Professor Duane McKenna\, University of Memphis \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Charles\, PhD candidate\, University of Memphis \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Abstract from Duane McKenna\nOver the last 20 years\, molecular phylogenetic studies have largely resolved the higher-level phylogeny of beetles and timing and rates of beetle diversification. Along the way\, these studies have resolved previously contentious beetle relationships\, dated the origin of beetles to the Carboniferous\, and supported the hypothesis of beetle and angiosperm co-diversification. This research has also revealed that genes acquired from bacteria and fungi via horizontal gene transfers played a crucial role in the Mesozoic diversification and convergent trophic evolution of herbivorous beetles\, particularly the clades Phytophaga (leaf beetles\, longhorn beetles\, and weevils) and Buprestidae (metallic wood-boring beetles). In this talk I will share results from my research on the evolution and genomic basis of beetle diversity\, with a focus on plant-feeding. I will also discuss how—through collaboration with other entomologists worldwide—we are using genomic data to explore the evolution of beetle genome architecture and specialized herbivory\, linking macroevolutionary patterns with biological form\, function\, and phenotype. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Abstract froom Michael Charles\nThe introduction of invasive fungal pathogens led to the 20th-century functional extinction of the American chestnut (Castanea dentata) and the decline or extinction of several of it specialized insect associates. Last collected in 1997\, the greater chestnut weevil (Curculio caryatrypes)\, the largest species of acorn weevil in North America\, and a host-specialist on American chestnut\, has been presumed extinct for nearly 3 decades. However\, photos posted on social media in 2022 and 2023 suggested the persistence of the weevil in at least two localities. Because the photos came to our attention during the winter of 2023-24\, at which time adults were no longer present\, larvae were collected from nuts found underneath hybrid chestnut trees at both locations for rearing and two larvae from each site were used for DNA sequencing. The larval DNA sequences were compared to 11 other Curculio species\, including two pinned adult specimens of the greater chestnut weevil\, and two other Curculionini. In the resulting phylogeny\, the four larvae of purported greater chestnut weevil formed a single clade along with historical (museum) specimens of this species with maximal bootstrap support. URL:https://tacf.org/event/chestnut-chat-beetle-evolution-greater-chestnut-weevil/ LOCATION:NY CATEGORIES:Chestnut Chat,The American Chestnut Foundation ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://tacf.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Greater-Chestnut-weevil-1200.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250516T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250516T150000 DTSTAMP:20250514T140408Z CREATED:20250417T162832Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250514T140408Z UID:10002055-1747396800-1747407600@tacf.org SUMMARY:VA - Planting at Matthews State Forest DESCRIPTION:Come plant with us at Matthews State Forest on May 16th starting at 12 noon. Meet us outside of the Matthews State Forest Education Center and we will bring/show you to the planting site. We will be planting 100 American chestnuts! Wear closed toe shoes\, bring gloves\, sunscreen\, bug spray\, water and a lunch. \nSpots are limited\, sign up here to volunteer. URL:https://tacf.org/event/planting-at-matthews-state-forest/ LOCATION:Matthews State Forest\, 245 Jacks Orch Rd\, Galax\, VA\, 24333\, United States CATEGORIES:The American Chestnut Foundation,Virginia ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://tacf.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/American-chestnuts-are-hairy-and-smaller-yet-sweeter-than-European-and-Asian-varieties-1200.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Cassie Stark":MAILTO:cassie.stark@tacf.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250606T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250606T150000 DTSTAMP:20250520T212539Z CREATED:20250520T210305Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250520T212539Z UID:10002058-1749200400-1749222000@tacf.org SUMMARY:VA - Inoculations at Sky Meadows State Park DESCRIPTION:Event will take place Friday and Saturday from 9am-3pm.\nTesting our orchard trees for blight resistance requires inoculating them with the blight. We do this by boring a hole in the bark\, removing a plug of bark\, and replacing it with a disk of agar and mycelium\, the chestnut blight fungus. The agar and mycelium are cut from a culture of the fungus in a Petri plate. Our experience has been that a crew of three people can inoculate two plots of 180 planted nuts per day\, from 9am to 3 pm. The work is low to the ground and requires you to follow a set protocol. Reasonable agility and attention to detail are all that is required. Training is relatively quick. You will learn to recognize naturally occurring blight and gain general knowledge of the selection and testing process.\n\nPrepare to get dirty and protect yourself from possible poison ivy. Long pants\, long sleeves\, gloves\, and a hat are recommended. Bring water and lunch.\n\nRSVP here : https://theamericanchestnutfoundation.volunteerlocal.com/volunteer/?id=90482 URL:https://tacf.org/event/va-inoculations-at-sky-meadows-state-park/2025-06-06/ LOCATION:Sky Meadows State Park\, 11012 Edmonds Ln\, Markham\, VA\, 22643\, United States CATEGORIES:The American Chestnut Foundation,Virginia ORGANIZER;CN="Fred Hebard":MAILTO:mbiew@comcast.net END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250607T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250607T150000 DTSTAMP:20250520T212539Z CREATED:20250520T210305Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250520T212539Z UID:10002062-1749286800-1749308400@tacf.org SUMMARY:VA - Inoculations at Sky Meadows State Park DESCRIPTION:Event will take place Friday and Saturday from 9am-3pm.\nTesting our orchard trees for blight resistance requires inoculating them with the blight. We do this by boring a hole in the bark\, removing a plug of bark\, and replacing it with a disk of agar and mycelium\, the chestnut blight fungus. The agar and mycelium are cut from a culture of the fungus in a Petri plate. Our experience has been that a crew of three people can inoculate two plots of 180 planted nuts per day\, from 9am to 3 pm. The work is low to the ground and requires you to follow a set protocol. Reasonable agility and attention to detail are all that is required. Training is relatively quick. You will learn to recognize naturally occurring blight and gain general knowledge of the selection and testing process.\n\nPrepare to get dirty and protect yourself from possible poison ivy. Long pants\, long sleeves\, gloves\, and a hat are recommended. Bring water and lunch.\n\nRSVP here : https://theamericanchestnutfoundation.volunteerlocal.com/volunteer/?id=90482 URL:https://tacf.org/event/va-inoculations-at-sky-meadows-state-park/2025-06-07/ LOCATION:Sky Meadows State Park\, 11012 Edmonds Ln\, Markham\, VA\, 22643\, United States CATEGORIES:The American Chestnut Foundation,Virginia ORGANIZER;CN="Fred Hebard":MAILTO:mbiew@comcast.net END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR