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Alabama's Champion Tree
Program began in 1970, when 28 trees were listed. As of 2007, there are
over 100 state Champion Trees. Modeled after American Forest's Big
Tree Program, it is designed to discover, recognize and preserve the
largest of each tree species in Alabama. Once a champion is
declared, its owner and nominator receive certificates, and a permanent
marker is placed at the base of the tree.
 A
Champion Tree is the largest of its particular species in Alabama.
The Forestry Commission uses a formula developed by American Forests to
determine the size of a tree. The point system is figured as
follows: one point for each inch of circumference, plus one point for each
foot of height, plus one point for each four feet of average crown
spread. Instructions for using this formula can be found on page 10
of the Champion Tree
publication. The
Forestry Commission is charged by state law to ensure that our forests
meet the needs of all Alabamians. This means helping people to be
better users and stewards of our forests.
Champion bald cypress in Baldwin County The
Alabama Forestry Commission supports saving and recognizing trees through
the Champion Tree Program. Champion trees are not only special, but
are worth protection and recognition for future generations. Anyone
can nominate a tree for this program by completing a nomination form (see
page 12). A forester or Alabama Forestry Commission forestry
specialist must
verify the tree's measurements and other information on the bottom portion
of the nomination form. Any local Forestry Commission forester or
ranger will be glad to assist with the completion of the form. Eligible
nominations will be submitted to the National Register of Big Trees
maintained by American Forests in Washington D.C. The National
Register uses the same point system as the Alabama Champion Tree
Program. Alabama champion trees that are also national champions
will be added to the on-line Champion Tree publication in the Spring of
2008. |
