Bill > HJR0150

This resolution urges the University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture to conduct a comprehensive economic study examining the impact of Bradford pear trees on agriculture and forestry in Tennessee. The resolution provides extensive background on Bradford pear trees, explaining that they were originally introduced from Asia in the early 1900s as an ornamental tree with disease-resistant qualities, but have since become an invasive species with significant ecological and economic challenges. The study will be conducted in consultation with multiple state agencies, including the Departments of Agriculture, Environment and Conservation, Transportation, and the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency. The resolution requires the University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture to submit a detailed report of its findings to the General Assembly by April 30, 2026, and mandates that certified copies of the resolution be transmitted to the senior leadership of the involved agencies. The study will likely explore the Bradford pear's negative impacts, such as its ability to form dense thickets, outcompete native plants, produce thorny variants that can damage agricultural equipment, and create challenges for ecosystem management through its invasive characteristics.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=HJR0150&ga=114