FODM Receives Tree Planting Grant

The Friends of Dyke Marsh have received a grant of $3,250 to plant trees in the marsh to replace some of the pumpkin ash trees (Fraxinus profunda) that are dying because of the invasive emerald ash borer (Agrilus planipennis).

On June 8, 2023, Wetlands Watch and the Virginia Outdoors Foundation announced the award, along with 13 others in the state, to support resiliency projects in the coastal zone. FODM’s intent is to preserve and restore the marsh and its ecological functions. Experts estimate that the marsh is losing up to 1,000 pumpkin ash trees and that their loss would further destabilize marsh sediments. You can learn more here. To help with the planting, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and put “Tree Planting” in the subject box.

Trees falling into the water along the shoreline are one sign of erosion.   Photo by Glenda Booth

Many dead pumpkin ash trees are visible along the marsh shoreline.     Photo by Glenda Booth