Points North: How ‘Bout Them Apples?
On a remote island in Lake Michigan, old apple trees may possess rare, never-before-discovered genes, potentially joining the U.S. stockpile to combat future threats.
By Austin Rowlader, Interlochen Public Radio, Points North is a biweekly podcast about the Great Lakes' land, water, and inhabitants.
The Search for Rare Apple Trees
Luke Marion is searching for apple trees on Beaver Island in Lake Michigan. On a sunny, yet cold March day with snow on the ground, Marion finds a tree and takes out pruners to cut last year's growth from the branches.
- He collects the cuttings in a carefully marked bag.
- The cuttings are stored in a cooler to remain dormant.
There's a chance these particular apple trees could be very rare.
Beaver Island is located 32 miles off mainland Michigan.
Author's summary: Rare apple trees discovered on Lake Michigan island.