About Us
Our Mission
The Maryland Chapter of The American Chestnut Foundation has been formed to support the efforts of the national organization to restore the American chestnut tree, to identify and preserve American chestnut survivors in Maryland, and to promote educational and scientific research efforts directed at restoring American chestnuts in Maryland.
TACF members in Maryland, Delaware and the District of Columbia comprise the Maryland Chapter.
Maryland Chapter Activities
The backcross breeding program of the Maryland Chapter of The American Chestnut Foundation (MDTACF) is carried out in twenty-two orchards throughout the state of Maryland. These orchards advance the efforts of The American Chestnut Foundation to restore the American chestnut tree to its former range throughout the Appalachian region, enhancing the genetic diversity of the backcross breeding efforts with mother trees adapted to the variety of growing conditions within the state of Maryland. Maryland orchards also create opportunities for learning activities and research related to American chestnut restoration. The Maryland Chapter initiates and supports hands-on learning activities in areas of inquiry relevant to American chestnut restoration.
MDTACF is tax exempt under section 501 (c) (3) of the IRS code.
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Chapter Information
How Can I Help?
The best way to learn of our activities and of the volunteer opportunities is to join our Google mail list.
To volunteer or to obtain more information concerning orchard maintenance activities or Chapter display events please contact us at MDTACF@outlook.com or subscribe to our Orchard Volunteers Google Group.
Maryland Chapter Menu
National Facebook
Our office will be closed today, Monday, October 14, in recognition of Indigenous Peoples' Day. We will reopen tomorrow, Tuesday, October 15.
This photo was was submitted to our 2021 photo contest by Florian Carle.
78 CommentsComment on Facebook
Never heard of it. I do celebrate Columbus Day and Independence Day, however.
It amazes me how many people are surprised that a group teaching the value and belonging of a native tree that were decimated by European settlers failing to manage the land well and a nonnative diseases would also be.. {checks notes} teaching the value and belonging of native people that were decimated by European settlers and their diseases.
Really HATE when organizations I otherwise like and support jump on the political and venture signaling band wagons instead of focusing on what they do. Stay on task and stop pandering.
This week at Meadowview Research Farms we welcomed Dr. Ong's class from King University, to help with the processing of burrs! They shucked nearly 5,000 burrs and harvested over 8,000 seeds this week alone. With the harvest season wrapping up at MRF, we've collected more than 40,000 seeds in total this year! These seeds play a vital role in TACF's research and breeding programs, and any extras are sent to collaborators. Amazing teamwork and dedication to preserving our future!
#americanchestnutfoundation #ChestnutRestoration #Conservation #SeedHarvest #americanchestnut
1 CommentComment on Facebook
Thank you King University!
Deadline to submit application has been extended to 10/11/24. To submit an application click the following link: forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=5tAJQo_f0Umjzau-SCHT1aJ2IY5hp3FJhGALFFb7NDZUNUFVMTlVS...
The 2024 American Chestnut Symposium Diversity Scholarship covers the cost of registration for the full symposium events for awardees, including meals ($225 value). It does not cover travel costs or lodging.
Eligible applicants should be from a historically underrepresented group (gender identities, racial and ethnic backgrounds, disability, or socioeconomic status), living in New England and over the age of 18. Applicants are responsible for transportation to the symposium in Cromwell, CT.
#americanchestnut #chestnut #rootedinrestoration #chestnutblight #restoration #conservation #nature #environment #forestry #scholarship #education #diversity #DEI
0 CommentsComment on Facebook
Although Meadowview Research Farms experienced only minor damage from Hurricane Helene, the wider Washington County region and parts of southwest Virginia faced significant destruction. Our community has been deeply affected and is currently seeking assistance for relief efforts. Designated locations are in need of volunteers and donations. Now is the perfect opportunity to connect with those around you and provide support. Together, we can aid our community in its rebuilding and recovery process.
In addition to MRF, TACF’s national headquarters is located in downtown Asheville, NC. The national office did not flood and TACF Asheville staff are safe. Please keep an eye out for ways to help Asheville, NC recover from Hurricane Helene as well.
#americanchestnut #castaneadentata #americanchestnutfoundation #ChestnutResearch #ConservationScience #hurricanehelene
0 CommentsComment on Facebook
TACF’s national office in Asheville, NC will be closed for business until further notice. Western North Carolina was one of the hardest areas hit by Helene. Thankfully, all staff is safe but still without power, internet, and water, including the national office. Therefore, Asheville staff is on emergency leave and will be slow to respond. We appreciate your patience during this difficult and challenging time.
18 CommentsComment on Facebook
Just come back. Until then, stay safe down there you all.
I thought Chestnut trees were wiped out long ago?
Greetings TACF. We are in Floyd County VA but have space to provide temporary housing for someone from the Asheville area that needs emergency housing (a family with young kids or individual) We have been trying to put the word out... We met you last December when we donated my mom's (Barbara Knapp) chestnut papers... If you know of someone that needs a place to land for a while, please let me know!
Latest News
Maryland Chapter Fall Meeting 2024
The Fall meeting of the membership of the Maryland Chapter of the American Chestnut Foundation will be held on Saturday, September 28th, 10:00am - 2:00pm. We will meet at the Fox Haven Farm & Learning Center, 3630 Poffenberger Rd, Jefferson, MD, 21755. ...
Maryland Chapter Spring Meeting 2024
The Maryland Chapter of the American Chestnut Foundation (TACF) is excited to invite you to our annual Spring Meeting. This is a fantastic opportunity to: Hear from leading experts · Dr. Douglas E. Norris (Johns Hopkins): gain insights into tick-borne disease · Bruce...