Location: Vassar Farm and Ecological Preserve, Field Station Pavillion, 124 Raymond Ave., Poughkeepsie
Native seed collection is imperative for the preservation, conservation and reclamation of plant communities
in decline. Faced with the loss of Ash (Fraxinus) species as a result of the Emerald Ash Borer, the
Mid-Atlantic Regional Seed Bank and the USFS National Seed Lab are collecting ash seed across New York
State for preservation. Collecting seed is a fast and inexpensive way to preserve germplasm. By conserving
the genetic diversity of ash species before the populations are lost, we have more opportunities to adequately
restore the species to the landscape once a successful biological control is found.
We invite you to attend our Native Ash Seed Collection Workshop on May 15th, at the Vassar Farm
and Ecological Preserve. The participants of this workshop will be introduced to the protocol for collecting
Ash seed, learn how to identify ash species and learn about preserving genetic diversity through seed. It is our
hope that the information you gain from this workshop will result in your contribution of ash seed collections
to both MARSB and the National Ash Conservation Project.
This workshop is your opportunity to become involved in an unique and exciting regional seed collection
network. We are eager to create permanent relationships with botanists and naturalists interested in native
seed collection. We hope to see you May 15th! For any questions, or to RSVP, please contact Clara Holmes.
RSVP: Clara Holmes, 718-370-9044, clara.holmes@parks.nyc.gov
