It's hard out here for a beech
The beech is a tree native to the Northeast that makes up about 10% of forests in Massachusetts. But in recent years, a new disease impacting the trees’ leaves has emerged and poses a huge threat to the species’ longevity in the region.
The Common · WBUR
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Show Notes
Beech trees are native to the Northeast and make up about 10% of forests in Massachusetts.
The tree, which is identifiable by its smooth trunk and wide canopy, is a crucial habitat and food source for many animal species in the region. But in recent years, a microscopic worm-caused disease has been targeting beech leaves, causing many trees to starve to death over time. The disease is spreading, and fast.
WBUR climate and environment reporter Paula Moura joins The Common to tell us more about this disease, how to identify it and the race to find a cure to save Massachusetts' beech trees.
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