Large elm tree south of MacKay Hall.
This is an eastern
species, ranging from southern Canada to central Florida, west to
the foot of the Rocky Mountains. It is native throughout Iowa. Elm bark
beetles are responsible for spreading Dutch elm disease. This
disease was introduced to the US from Europe and causes wilting, yellowing,
leaf curl and eventual death of infected trees. There is no cure, but early
community-wide detection, sanitation and removal of affected trees can limit
its spread. With a tall, graceful outline and casting excellent shade,
the American elm was once the most popular tree for street and yard planting
in America.
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