Midcoast Conservancy will be hosting a special event as part of their Wednesday Wander series – an informative walk-and-talk focused on Beech Tree Disease – October 29, from 9:30 - 11:30 a.m., at Hidden Valley Nature Center, 131 Egypt Road, Jefferson. 

Maine Forester Jared Gregory will lead a walk and talk focused on tree diseases, specifically those affecting the American beech tree (Fagus grandifolia).

"As the District Forester who covers the Jefferson area, Jared is uniquely qualified not only to speak about this tree disease but the hyper-local impact it is having in our area of the midcoast," said Midcoast Conservancy, in a news release.

Many people may be familiar with beech trees as towering beauties whose recognizable surfboard shaped leaves and elephant leg trucks provide essential shade to yards and forest floors, according to the Conservancy. However, beech trees in Maine are suffering from two distinct diseases threatening their health and survival. 

Participants will learn how to identify American beech trees, the historical role of these trees, how forests have changed since European settlement, and how exotic pests are impacting these trees and others in a way that is reshaping our forested landscapes. An overview of mitigation efforts against this and other threats to forest health will also be provided. 

The event is free but registration is requested - visit midcoastconservancy.org/events or call 207-389-5160.