Chestnut Harvest at the Chestnut Return Farm, Seneca, SC, September 25, 2025

Today, controlled-pollinated hybrid chestnuts in protective bags were harvested. Also, open-pollinated chestnuts from the best trees were collected. Jamie Van Clief from TACF directed the work. We were happy to have so many helpful hands today to make the harvest go quickly! Thanks to all!

Group picture of volunteers at the Chestnut Return Farm

Group picture of the volunteers at the Chestnut Return Farm. Jordan, Stone, Jay, Charlie, Dr. Joe James (farm owner and chestnut breeder), Peggy, Sadin, Jamie, and Roy. Dr. Haiying Liang from Clemson University also participated and took the picture. It was a good opportunity for her four students to have some hands-on experience with chestnut harvesting.

Pole pruners are used to collect burs out of reach.

Pole pruners were used to collect burs out of reach.

Chestnut harvesting.

Bags full of chestnut burs are removed from the orchard.

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The American Chestnut Foundation

3 days ago

January might feel like the quiet season, but at our research farms it’s already time to get growing. This month, we’re sowing chestnut seeds that will be used in upcoming research and breeding efforts. Starting seeds in January gives us a valuable head start on the growing season, allowing seedlings to establish early and be ready for genotyping in the spring and summer. Each seed represents an important step forward in our research, helping us better understand growth, resistance, and performance across chestnut species and hybrids. #AmericanChestnut #RestorationInProgress

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The American Chestnut Foundation

3 days ago

Does everyone's staff retreat include fungus, tree bark, and chestnut beer... or just ours?

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Does everyone's staff retreat include fungus, tree bark, and chestnut beer... or just ours? #americanchestnut #explorepage #restoration #conservation #chestnuts #worktrip #staffretreat

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The American Chestnut Foundation

4 days ago

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how do we get american chestnut seedlings to plant?

Great video!!!

The American Chestnut Foundation

4 days ago

Black History Month provides an important opportunity to honor the past while also recognizing how Black knowledge, leadership, and community continue to shape the present. From histories rooted in land and survival to modern platforms and outdoor spaces where connection and representation matter.
Throughout February, we will share a series of four stories that explore Black relationships to land, legacy, and community, looking at both historical foundations and contemporary expressions. We begin with an exploration of the Coe Ridge Colony, an African American community founded after the Civil War, whose history offers important insight into self‑determination, resilience, and adaptation.

Visit tacf.org/black-history-and-the-american-chestnut/ to read more about the Coe Ridge Colony!

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