American Elm Restoration
The American elm was once the street tree of choice for America’s main streets. This beautiful native tree is hearty and adaptable to a wide range of conditions found in cities, such as compact soil and increased pollution. The most visible and well-known American elms in the District are growing on the National Mall between the U.S. Capitol Building and the Washington Monument.
Dutch elm disease (DED) devastated many stands of American elms across the country including here in the District. As many as 100 million American elms have succumbed to DED since it was introduced from Europe almost 85 years ago. American elms remain susceptible to DED today.
 Reintroducing American elms to D.C.
As of March 2011, Casey Trees has planted 2,034 disease-tolerant American elm cultivars across D.C. Planted cultivars include Jefferson, New Harmony, Princeton and Valley Forge. While planting locations are determined by the District’s Urban Forest Administration, Casey Trees purchases, plants and waters the trees with its own funds.
Casey Trees-planted American elms by ward is as follows:
- Ward 1: 201
- Ward 2: 158
- Ward 3: 110
- Ward 4: 374
- Ward 5: 209
- Ward 6: 509
- Ward 7: 324
- Ward 8: 149