American beech trees shape the forests we hike, run, and explore, but fast-spreading beech bark disease and beech leaf disease are threatening their future. Adventure Scientists has partnered with researchers at the University of Connecticut to find healthy beech trees that are resistant to these diseases, but they need outdoor adventurers like you to help. By pairing your time outdoors with real conservation action, you can help guide future restoration efforts that allow beech trees to thrive in our forests.
Volunteers are needed in National Forests and State Forests over 1,000 acres in size in Alabama, Arkansas, the Florida panhandle, Indiana, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Missouri, Mississippi, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, eastern Texas, eastern Wisconsin, and West Virginia.
Beech trees are easily accessible on many local trails near you! Once trained, you will be able to choose the location and trails you are comfortable exploring. You’ll also be able to follow your sample’s journey from the forest through its DNA analysis, connecting your time outside directly to scientific discovery.
Because beech genetics vary across regions, samples must be widely spread across many forests. Only a few samples are needed for each area, and each tree must be found in the summer while leaves are green.
Sign up now to get early access to popular locations and be among the first to collect samples in your area.
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