WASHINGTON – Bipartisan legislation has been introduced in the U.S. Senate to safeguard the nation’s white oak tree population, which is key to several commercial industries and vital to wildlife.
Sens. Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., and Mark Warner, D-Va., introduced the White Oak Resilience Act of 2025, which will “mobilize” more federal resources and research in protecting the tree’s population.
By Sarah Roderick-Fitch | The Center Square
The senators say the trees are essential to the ecosystem and a “trademark” for several American industries. In addition, the White Oak is regarded as “the most important hardwood tree” in the eastern half of the country. The trees are also vital to multiple wildlife species.
However, bourbon is likely binding the neighboring commonwealths while forging a bipartisan endeavor to protect the historic tree.
Their wood has long been used to age Kentucky’s most famous spirit, where bourbon, bluegrass and horses reign supreme. The Bluegrass State produces 95% of the global bourbon supply and contributes about $9 billion to the commonwealth’s economy, according to the Kentucky Distillers’ Association.
Virginia plays an essential role in preserving the tree, with the commonwealth housing one of the country’s largest concentrations of the tree.
The “iconic” tree can take nearly 25 years to mature fully. About 75% of all the white oaks across the eastern part of the country “can be classified as ‘mature,’ while populations of young white oak trees are limited,” according to the White Oak Initiative.
Research shows that “existing (tree) stocks are sufficient for near-future demand.” There is significant concern about long-term sustainability due to the lack of seedlings. In short, the older trees are not being replaced with younger ones to support future demand.
