Ohio Big Trees
Ohio’s Big Tree Program is a voluntary endeavor to locate, measure, record, and appreciate the largest tree species in our state. The Ohio Division of Forestry is pleased to provide a mechanism that promotes these living monarchs and their environmental legacy. Designation as a Big Tree, through this program, does not confer any special legal status, ownership, or protection.
You can help.
Ohioans can help find more champion-sized trees in back yards, community parks and cemeteries across the state. Big Trees are generally found in yards, parks, arboretums and cemeteries where their size stands out. They are less frequently found in dense forests where trees have much more competition for growth.
Nomination Process
The Division of Forestry accepts nominations for potential champions. Anyone can nominate a tree. When two trees of the same species are within 5 points of each other they are considered co-Champions. The deadline for submitting nominations for the 2012 Ohio Big Tree list is July 1, 2011. After July 1, 2011, nominations will be accepted and evaluated for the 2013 Big Tree list.
Nominating forms for Ohio’s Big Trees are available on this site. You can take quick preliminary measurements using the diagram available on the form. Please fill in as many of the fields on the form as possible for verification and location purposes. A wide variety of conifers and deciduous trees thrive in Ohio’s moist, moderate climate. See the index of Ohio trees for more comprehensive information.
ODNR foresters and other experts will assess nominated trees to determine their eligibility for Big Tree honors.
Ohio is currently home to 10 national champion Big Trees on the Big Trees registry maintained by American Forests, a conservation organization based in Washington, D.C. Since 1940, American Forests has documented the largest known specimens of every native and naturalized tree in the United States. Each Big Tree receives a score based on trunk circumference, crown spread and total height.
|