Maine Prepares for Emerald Ash Borers with Indigenous Knowledge
Maine is gearing up for the arrival of Emerald Ash Borers, destructive insects known for decimating ash trees in the Great Lakes. While the beetles have yet to cause widespread damage in Maine, researchers are working to protect the state’s brown ash trees, particularly due to their importance to the Wabanaki tribes.
The collaboration, known as the Ash Protection Collaboration Across Wabanakik, involves university researchers, state and federal forestry agencies, conservation groups, tribes, and basketmakers. They are combining western science with indigenous approaches to develop strategies for dealing with the beetles.
Efforts are focused on protecting traditional basketmaking, an art form deeply tied to the ash tree. The collaboration has resulted in innovative approaches, such as a memorandum of understanding with the U.S. Department of Agriculture to consult with tribes if an infestation is found near federal land.
Additionally, the Wabanaki Youth and Science program has been established to promote collaboration and inclusivity in education. Maine’s regulations for emerald ash borer control are stricter than other states, and efforts are underway to adapt to the inevitable arrival of the beetles.
Research into genetic diversity of ash trees, as well as biological control methods such as using stingless wasps, is ongoing to combat the spread of Emerald Ash Borers. Overall, the state is hopeful that these efforts will buy time and potentially save Maine’s ash trees from the fate suffered by other regions.
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