Scientists work to revive American elm through experimental breeding and genetic research

Researchers are employing genetic techniques and selective breeding to restore the American elm species, once nearly decimated by Dutch elm disease, in hopes of producing disease-resistant trees for urban forestry.

First covered Jul 23, 2026 · 1:30 AM PT · 1 article

Scientists work to revive American elm through experimental breeding and genetic research — Image via grist.org

Coverage

18h Grist The deadly experiment that could save the American elm

Primary sources

agresearchmag.ars.usda.gov Elms (agresearchmag.ars.usda.gov)

static1.squarespace.com Gourevitch+Et+Al.+2022 (static1.squarespace.com)

More coverage from around the web

geneticliteracyproject.org Biotechnology forestry revival projects now include elms along with American chestnuts - Genetic Literacy Project

nature.org American Elm: Restoring the Iconic Tree for Healthy Floodplains

joa.isa-arbor.com Arboriculture & Urban Forestry 43(6): November 2017

nps.gov Research Brief: Restoring the American Elm with Genetics (U.S. National Park Service)

nivemnic.us American elms: progress on breeding resistance – Center for Invasive Species Prevention

Appeared in: 2026-07-24 (#17)

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