Objective:
This agreement will establish a general framework for the cooperation and participation among cooperators in the conservation of Fraxinus nigra (Black Ash) and other Fraxinus spp in a potential decline due to the presence of the introduced pest Agrilus planipennis Fairmaire (Coleoptera: Buprestidae) (Emerald Ash Borer). Black Ash is of cultural value to Native American Indian populations in the Great Lake Region who have expressed an interest in maintaining this resource, specifically the black ash. This Agreement may be extended to include other Fraxinus species as well as non-Fraxinus species in the same ecosystems that may also be affected by the infestation of the Emerald Ash Borer.

Approach:
NRCS will coordinate with numerous entities, including Native American Indian tribes, the Bureau of Indian Affairs, the U.S. Forest Service, the U.S. Fish and Wild Life Service as well as state and local agencies to design and organize the collection of seed from wild Ash populations. The goal of such seed collection would be to capture the biodiversity present over the range of the population area designated by Major Land Resource Areas (MLRA). Seed would then be shipped and stored at NCGRP.