ERCA has a very active seed collection program. For the past decade, ERCA has partnered with landowners to collect high quality seeds from the target species that are best suited to our Carolinian zone (Zone 38). These include Hickory, Oak, Maple and Sycamore trees, and Dogwood, Nannyberry and Elderberry shrubs. Our partner nurseries then grow the seeds into small trees. After a period of 1 – 3 years, ERCA buys these seedling trees back to plant in our region, ensuring the most tolerant and best-adapted species are used for restoration projects, providing the best chance for the trees to flourish.
In order to achieve the best results possible, ERCA collects seeds from a variety of sources. In addition to collecting seed from its own conservation areas, ERCA partners with private landowners to ensure that an appropriate diversity of high quality seed can be collected. Our target species include: Hickory, Oak, Maple, Sycamore trees, and Dogwood, Nannyberry, Elderberry shrubs.