Chestnut Tree Project Grows to New Heights
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Four years ago, Paul Quintavalla and Lou Pace of the Broomall Rotary Club planted a dozen hybrid chestnut trees across Broomall to restore these trees to the region. The project received a matching District Grant in 2022 and the club may seek another in 2027.
Left: Paul Quintavalla with Lou Pace planting Chestnut tree in 2022. Right: Paul and Lou in March 2026 with trees that have grown more than 30 feet tall!
According to Paul and Lou, “When a project works well, we like to move it forward. We’ve had requests for trees from residents who appreciate Rotary’s foresight and contribution.”
Billions of American Chestnut Trees were wiped out by a blight in the 20th century. Now, arborists are testing hybrid chestnut trees in hopes of establishing a replacement of the species. The hybrid trees are a cross of American chestnut trees and Chinese chestnut trees that are grown in sanitary isolation.
Paul and Lou planted a line of six hybrid chestnut trees by the tennis courts of Delaware County Community College. So far, the results are promising. Despite damage by deer, some trees are about ten feet tall and yielded fruit this year. It’s a very good beginning.
Protecting the environment is one of Rotary’s areas of focus. Rotary works with communities to implement service projects that improve the environment and transform lives.