Title
A Resolution supporting and encouraging the establishment of the Forest Health Research and Education Center (FHC) at the University of Ky., for the expansion of critical research and educational programming and to address increased threats from invasive pests and pathogens on trees and forests throughout the region. [Council Office, Maynard]
Body
WHEREAS, a growing number of experts, public officials, and citizens recognize that tree and forest resources critical to our country's economy and urban and natural landscapes are facing numerous threats, including a variety of pests and pathogens with the demonstrated potential to completely destroy foundational tree species, degrade forest productivity, and deteriorate ecosystem value; and
WHEREAS, several tree species (e.g. American chestnut, ash, hemlock) have been lost or are disappearing at an alarming rate, and other valuable tree species such as oak (a foundational tree species compromises nearly 50% of hardwood sawtimber volume in Kentucky and also contributes to this region's distinct bourbon industry) are equally imperiled; and
WHEREAS, the University of Kentucky ("UK"), the United States Department of Agriculture Forest Service Southern Research Station, and the Kentucky Division of Forestry have partnered to form the Forest Health Research and Education Center ("FHC") on UK's campus; and
WHEREAS, the FHC plans to assemble a core group of researchers and educators to collaborate with experts around the world with the goal of solving the region's most pressing forest health challenges; and
WHEREAS, the FHC will conduct: (1) biological research to understand and enhance tree resistance and forest/ecosystem responses to biotic and abiotic stressors; (2) social research on the economic and cultural impacts of tree/forest/ecosystem loss, as well as factors affecting adoption of new technologies and approaches in order to improve forest health; and (3) outreach programs meant to educate st...
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