USDA deregulates blight-resistant American chestnut

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has deregulated Darling 54, a blight-resistant American chestnut developed at SUNY’s College of Environmental Science and Forestry. This decision removes plant-pest regulations, marking a significant milestone for biotechnology used in ecological restoration.

Developed to combat the fungus that decimated American chestnut populations in the early 20th century, Darling 54 contains a wheat gene that produces oxalate oxidase. This enzyme breaks down the acid used by the blight fungus to kill the tree. Researchers note that these chestnuts tolerate blight better than other tested varieties, offering hope for restoring ecological relationships in Eastern forests.

While many scientists view this as a major step toward reintroducing the species to its former range, some researchers urge caution regarding the tree's readiness to lead a full comeback.