That is a question often asked when the Plant Materials Center staff or
Plant Materials Specialist presents information on the Ash Seed
Collection Initiative. Some answers to that question include
preservation of genetic diversity within the various Fraxinus species;
providing genetic resources for developing resistance to the Emerald Ash
Borer; providing a mechanism for assuring the survival of important
plant species in the landscape; and a host of other good “biological”
reasons. One aspect of Ash preservation that is often overlooked is the
affect that the loss of Ash, especially Black Ash, would have on the
culture of many Native American groups.
Dave
Burgdorf, Plant Materials Specialist, presented information on the Ash
Seed Collection Initiative at a Tribal meeting last April. At
least eight tribes from Michigan, Indiana, and Wisconsin were
represented at that meeting. Among the presenters at that meeting
were several basket makers, who use Black Ash wood to create the baskets
that are as beautiful and artistic as they are practical. The
basket makers described the process of locating and harvesting Black Ash
trees in the wetlands, making strips of ash wood, and creating the
baskets with all the detail of an artisan. A special emphasis was
placed on teaching the young people in their tribes the techniques and
art of material preparation and basket weaving.
Plant
Materials Program and National Ash Tree Seed Collection Initiative -
In the event that the emerald ash borer cannot be contained, the Rose
Lake Plant Materials Center is taking steps to see that the ash tree
doesn't vanish forever. The PMC has initiated the National
Ash Tree Seed Collection Initiative.
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