A perspective on black ash decline in eastern North America: ecological insights, cultural importance, and urgent research needs

Black ash ( Fraxinus nigra Marsh.) is a keystone species of wetlands and riparian ecosystems across northeastern North America. It is also culturally significant to Indigenous communities whose practices, livelihoods, and spiritual traditions are connected to the species. Today, black ash is threatened by compounding threats from climate change and the exotic emerald ash borer pest ( Agrilus planipennis Fairmaire), which has caused extensive mortality across its range. The loss of black ash carries profound ecological and cultural consequences ranging from altered water balance of unique wetland habitats to the loss of centuries-old basket-making traditions. From this perspective, we assess the ecological role, cultural importance, and management responses associated with the decline of black ash. We synthesize evidence on its vulnerability to the emerald ash borer, explore emerging conservation strategies to support its persistence, and outline approaches to its potential restoration. Underlining these themes, we consider the importance of integrating Indigenous Knowledge systems with Western science to guide decision-making and ensure cultural continuity. Looking forward, we argue for a renewed research agenda centered on ecological monitoring, scenario planning, and collaborative governance. Advances in remote sensing, climate-envelope modeling, and genetic conservation provide promising tools to design adaptive management strategies to suit a changing environment for this species. Equally critical is the recognition of Indigenous-led initiatives, which should protect black ash for cultural use but also provide models for co-management founded in resilience and reciprocity. By highlighting these ecological, cultural, and social dimensions of black ash decline, this perspective calls for urgent, coordinated action while a critical window of opportunity remains for effective conservation of black ash.