2023 MTGF FUNDING - $15,000 Teaching, Research and Outreach Programs at University of Minnesota

Principal Investigators:

Ryan Murphy: Department of Forest Resources, University of Minnesota

Benjamin Held and Robert Blanchette: Department of Plant Pathology, University of Minnesota

Cooperators: and

Support from MTGF continues to be critical in providing staff and student salary support, equipment acquisition, and development of novel research methodologies at the UMN Urban Forestry Outreach & Research Lab and the UMN Elm Selection Program.

Abstract

Urban and forested areas offer countless benefits in communities throughout Minnesota. However, tree canopy cover is declining in urban and community forests, due in large part to invasive species like Dutch elm disease and the emerald ash borer, leaving a lack of resources for the management of trees in the landscape. Continued effort is needed for the restoration of canopy loss and to enhance he resiliency of our future urban forest. We aim to accomplish these tasks by researching tree diseases and pests, assessing tree species performance, providing meaningful professional continuing education, and conducting outreach with youth to help recruit the next generation of urban foresters, arborists, and scientists. The long term support of MTGF to the Departments of Forest Resources and Plant Pathology has created many opportunities for growth in the areas of academic research and outreach to industry professionals, school-age youth, and others. We

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