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In this episode of The Atlas Obscura Podcast, we discover the story of the unimaginable destruction of the American chestnut tree—and the scientists, academics, and tree lovers who are desperately trying to bring them back from the edge of extinction.

Our podcast is an audio guide to the world’s wondrous, awe-inspiring, strange places. In under 15 minutes, we’ll take you to an incredible site, and along the way you’ll meet some fascinating people and hear their stories. Join us daily, Monday through Thursday, to explore a new wonder with cofounder Dylan Thuras and a neighborhood of Atlas Obscura reporters.

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