The American Chestnut Foundation's Meadowview Research Farms

05/13/2026

04/24/2026

Tissue sampling for recurrent genomic selection is no small task, but thanks to an incredible group of volunteers, we made it happen! Leaf samples were collected, placed in a small tube, and then a wraparound tag with a unique ID was placed on the tree; each unique ID corresponded with the tube the sample was put in. We had volunteers from the Washington County Master Gardeners, Washington County Master Naturalists, Emory and Henry University, and King University. Tissue collection is a key step towards advancing our breeding program, and we are incredibly grateful for everyone who showed up, worked hard, and supported the process. Science moves forward because of people like you!

04/22/2026

Check out this article on Clemson News about how scientists from Clemson University, Virginia Tech and The American Chestnut Foundation are using genomic selection to develop trees capable of surviving chestnut blight and Phytophthora root rot.

Read the article to hear more about Clemson's role in studying Phytophthora root rot: https://news.clemson.edu/clemson-scientists-help-advance-effort-to-restore-the-american-chestnut/

04/17/2026

We had a great time at our recent spring meeting, part of which included a tour of Meadowview Research Farms for staff and our board of directors. We discussed current projects and the future of the recurrent genomic selection (RGS) program, and highlighted important infrastructure needs that will help support future growth and continued research efforts. Investing in these areas will be key to advancing our mission and strengthening the work being done. We could not have done this alone; thank you to everyone who participated and contributed to such a productive and inspiring day!

04/13/2026

TACF is hiring!
We’re looking for a 2026 New England Restoration Intern to support hands‑on chestnut breeding and forest restoration work across our New England chapters. This paid summer internship offers real‑world experience in plant breeding, field research, orchard management, and conservation science. 🌱
Know someone who’d be a great fit? Tag them!

Visit https://tacf.org/employment/ to find out more information and apply!

04/03/2026

Building the future of our trellis orchard one graft at a time! After beginning to train Chinese chestnut trees onto wire last summer, Meadowview Research Farm staff are continuing that work this season by grafting and training American scion onto the same system. By training chestnut trees on wire, our hope is that the canopy is more accessible, making it easier and safer to access all male and female flowers from the ground. Grafting diverse American chestnut scion onto the wire will provide future access to trees from other regions. This careful process of connection and guidance blends strength, structure, and adaptability.