MAINE PUBLIC • April 10, 2026
The invasive emerald ash borer is spreading rapidly across Maine, decimating ash trees in its path. But the small, greenish beetle is also threatening the ancient Wabanaki tradition of basketmaking. That threat has some tribal members questioning the best way forward. There’s a story that’s been passed down for generations among the Wabanaki people. It says ash trees are the place from which they were all created.