American chestnut trees were once among the most majestic hardwood trees in the eastern deciduous forests, many reaching 80 to 120 feet in height and eight feet or more in diameter. The “then boundless chestnut woods” Thoreau wrote about in Walden once grew throughout the Appalachian mountains. They provided habitat and a mast crop for wildlife, a nutritious nut crop for humans and a source of valuable timber. Because of their rapid growth rate and…
Genetic engineering could save an iconic American tree from extinction
More of Today's Solutions
Friendships across income lines boost social mobility, study shows
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM A new study has found that friendships bridging economic divides can meaningfully improve social mobility—and even boost future ...
Read MoreNew cat color unlocked: ’salty liquorice’ sheds light on feline genetics
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM In a surprising turn for feline genetics, scientists have officially identified a new cat coat color that defies ...
Read More3 myths about self-help and personal growth we should all stop believing
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM When you hear the term "self-help," you may envision a stack of books with catchy, motivational titles. However, ...
Read MoreDo you have a toxic friend? A therapist’s advice on how to set boundaries
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM Friendships can be a source of joy and comfort, but unfortunately, even the most intimate connections can become toxic. ...
Read More
