REGION – ReLeaf Michigan, the only statewide non-profit tree planting and education organization in Michigan, is hosting its 15th biennial Michigan Big Tree Hunt contest. The contest, which offers prizes for identifying the biggest trees in Michigan, is open to participants of all ages.
The largest trees in the state can be found anywhere: a backyard, a local park, or a hiking trail. Certificates and prizes are awarded for the largest tree submitted from each county, for the overall largest tree in different age groups, and for the largest White Pine. Even if the tree submitted is not as large as the currently listed state champion of that species, it’s important to still submit, since the current champion may have died or since been removed.
ReLeaf Michigan started the Michigan Big Tree Hunt in 1993 to celebrate our state’s beauty and create a fun way to gather information about Michigan’s biggest trees. The contest is an opportunity for all age groups to help track these vital historical living landmarks, as well as a chance to bring people, nature, and trees together in an engaging environment.
The contest is also a way to discover eligible trees for the National Register of Big Trees, which is updated every spring and fall by American Forests, the nation’s oldest conservation nonprofit. American Forests tracks “Champion Trees,” which are the biggest tree of their species reported to American Forests in a given year. As recently as 2012, Michigan had 23 registered champion trees, but today there is only one registered. Since there are hundreds of tree species that don’t yet have registered champions, the Big Tree Hunt is a great opportunity to add to this list and get Michigan trees noticed nationwide.
More contest details and the entry form are available online at bigtreehunt.com. The contest will accept submissions until the deadline of August 19, 2022. This deadline was extended one additional year due to the impact of COVID-19. If you have a question not answered on the website, email bigtreehunt@releafmichigan.org or call (800) 642-7353.
ReLeaf Michigan’s Big Tree Hunt contest is possible thanks to the support of its sponsors. The Premier Sponsor of this year’s contest is Nissan. Other sponsors include Consumers Energy Foundation, the Michigan Botanical Foundation, the Michigan Botanical Club, and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources – Urban and Community Forestry Program.
ReLeaf Michigan’s contest is a fun activity for families, friends, or solo adventurers to participate in while enjoying the beauty of Michigan. Now grab your measuring tape, a friend or family member and head into the trees!
About ReLeaf Michigan
ReLeaf Michigan is the only statewide volunteer non-profit 501(c)(3) tree planting and education organization in Michigan. Its mission is to educate the public on the value of trees and how to properly select, plant and maintain them. Its board is made up primarily of arborists, foresters and researchers who are passionate about preserving one of Michigan’s greatest resources: trees.
Since 1988, ReLeaf Michigan has worked with more than 400 communities across the state, planting nearly 30,000 trees on public property in Michigan’s cities, townships and villages. Unlike most tree planting organizations, ReLeaf Michigan plants trees that are already substantial in size, resulting in a higher survival rate and more immediate environmental impact.
