Two coastal Maine towns are working hard to preserve some of the state’s last surviving 19th-century American elm trees, even as age, disease and new insect threats put their future at risk.
According to the Bangor Daily News, Blue Hill and Castine have spent decades protecting their historic elms from Dutch elm disease through fungicide treatments and careful maintenance. Castine budgets about $45,000 a year for elm care, while many Blue Hill property owners now pay to help preserve the iconic trees.
Despite those efforts, many of the original elms are reaching the end of their natural lives. Tree wardens in both communities say replacement trees, including disease-resistant elm varieties, are already being planted to help maintain the towns’ signature tree-lined streets.
Officials also face new challenges from pests and diseases affecting other tree species, making it increasingly difficult to choose suitable replacements for the future.
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