Dr. Lynn Skaggs DVM  of Winchester, Ky contacted me to inform me he had found and purchased 31 Dunstan American Chestnut Trees. He asked if the extension office could assist with planting them and we accepted the task. In early November 2022 we picked up a few FFA/4-H kids that were interested in Natural Resources and sat out to plant the trees. While planting the trees the youth got a lesson on the history of the American Chestnut and how the American Chestnut Tree was once a very valuable natural resource to North  America.  All 31 chestnut trees were planted in Elliott County with hopes they might flourish again like they once did. 6 youth were involved in helping plant the trees and multiple discussions were had with citizens in the area during the planting process which helped bring awareness to the American Chestnut and our endeavors.  

The Elliott County Extension office plans to start a yearly chestnut tree sale in order to make chestnut trees available to the citizens of Elliott county and surrounding area. The long term goals of reestablishing the American Chestnut include Superior wildlife food, reclamation, outstanding timber, and simply conservation and restoration of our east Ky forest health.