The Forest Restoration Alliance
The Forest Restoration Alliance (FRA) is a non-profit group of researchers at NCSU focused on developing genetic resistance to adelgid in native hemlocks and firs. To achieve its goals of long-term forest stability the group researches mechanisms for tree resistance and, based on the successful program established by The American Chestnut Foundation, works to breed hemlocks, firs and other native trees that are resistant to invasive forest pests. Learn more about the FRA on their website.
One way that the HRI supports the work of the FRA is through co-hosting volunteer workdays. These days are an opportunity for volunteers to get an inside look at the detailed, exciting work of the search for HWA-resistant hemlocks, and volunteers provide hands on help to scientists in maintaining valuable seedlings and test plots at the FRA selective breeding facility in Waynesville, North Carolina. If you would like to volunteer at an upcoming FRA work day, please fill out our Volunteer Sign Up Form. Check our events page for upcoming work days. We typically host one or two work days with the FRA each season.