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 12
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.
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 the online nomination form. An Alabama Forestry Commission
forestry must verify the tree's
measurements and other information.
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.
For more information about Alabama
Champion Trees, please contact:
Brian Hendricks
Champion Trees of Alabama
Alabama Forestry Commission
PO Box 302550
Montgomery, Alabama 36130-2550
Alabama Forestry Commission policy
prohibits discrimination based on race, color, national origin, sex religion
or handicapping conditions.