New generation of elm trees could beat disease that killed parents

Scientists in Vermont are leading an effort to beat Dutch elm disease and restore the iconic elm, while in North Carolina, the Appalachian Trail Conservancy is protecting ash trees against an invasive beetle. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Associated Press.

Alex Stephenson, conservation information manager at The Nature Conservancy Vermont, injects a young elm tree with Dutch elm disease spores on May 19, 2026, in Benson, Vt.

Emily Powell, with the Appalachian Trail Conservancy, inoculates an ash tree with triennial booster shots, June 12, 2026, in Hot Springs, N.C.

An American elm tree stands on the Eastern Promenade overlooking Casco Bay at dawn in Portland, Maine., June 4, 2026.

An American elm tree spreads its limbs in Portland, Maine, June 3, 2026.

Leaves of an American elm, which can be identified by their serrated edges, is seen in Castine, Maine, June 9, 2026.

These efforts are shown in AP video by Amanda Swinhart and Erik Verduzco.