Why is the preservation of Ash important?

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.

Historic Trail of Tears - 'White Eagle' corn grown at the Jimmy Carter PMC

In 1838 the United States government forcibly removed more than 16,000 Cherokee, Choctaw and Creek Indians from their homelands in Tennessee, Alabama, North Carolina, and Georgia. They were sent during the severe winter of 1838-1839 to Indian Territory in present day Oklahoma. Hundreds of Indians died during their trip west, and thousands perished from relocation. This tragic chapter in American history was known as the Trail of Tears. The Cherokee brought provisions to sustain them during the relocation. These included corn for planting in Oklahoma. Some of the corn survived and was given the name ‘White Eagle’. This corn is highly revered by descendents of the Trail of Tears March.

CONSERVATION... Our Purpose. Our Passion

The purpose and passion for conservation is shared among many. It is shared between NRCS employees and partners who help people help the land, and it is shared by the landowners with whom we work. Our passion is manifested through the benefits derived from stewardship of private lands—benefits we all enjoy, such as cleaner water and air, improved soils and abundant wildlife habitat.  Learn about our stories, the stories of conservation made possible through a shared purpose, a shared passion and a shared commitment to conservation.