Many of us have fond memories of a favorite tree from childhood- one that provided shade on a hot day, a sturdy trunk to climb, or a quiet place to sit and dream. Trees have long held symbolic meaning in our lives, from the “Tree of Life” to “Our Family Tree” and “Our Roots.” The National Champion Tree Program celebrates these towering icons, recognizing the largest known trees of each species across the country. But champion trees aren’t just relics of history- they are living, growing landmarks, and anyone can take part in finding and preserving them.
What is the National Champion Tree Program?
Since its creation in 1940, the National Champion Tree Program has worked to document, measure, and celebrate the largest trees in the United States. Originally managed by American Forests, the program is now run by the University of Tennessee’s School of Natural Resources. Each year, new champions are added to the list, while others grow, fall, or are dethroned by larger contenders.
A champion tree is the largest known individual of its species, determined through a standardized point system that accounts for height, trunk circumference, and crown spread. The current national register lists 548 champion trees, with Virginia leading the way at 95. The tallest champion is a 321-foot coast redwood in California, while the widest is the General Sherman tree, a giant sequoia with a staggering circumference of 1,026.6 inches.
The best part? Champion trees can grow anywhere, on public or private land, meaning you could be tending to the next big tree without even knowing it! This is a citizen science project at its heart, and anyone can participate by scouting, measuring, and nominating trees for recognition.
Oregon’s champion sitka spruce (Picea sitchensis) in Cape Meares National Wildlife Refuge in Tillamook.
How Are Champion Trees Measured?
The size of a tree is calculated using the following formula:
Trunk Circumference (inches) + Height (feet) + 1/4 of the Average Crown Spread (feet) = Total Points
For a tree to be eligible, it must meet the National Champion Tree Program’s definition of a tree: a woody plant with a single, upright perennial stem at least 9.5 inches in circumference at 4.5 feet above the ground (Diameter at Breast Height), a well-defined crown of foliage, and a height of at least 13 feet.
Measurements follow strict guidelines:
- Height is measured from the highest point of the tree to the ground, using tools like laser rangefinders for accuracy.
- Circumference is taken at 4.5 feet above ground level (DBH). Multi-trunked trees require additional verification.
- Crown Spread is determined by averaging the longest and shortest widths of the tree’s canopy.
To keep records accurate, champion trees should be remeasured every 10 years. If another tree is within 3% of the current champion’s score, both are listed as co-champions.
State Champion Tree Programs
Each state runs its own champion tree program, but their management varies. Some are overseen by forestry professionals, while others rely entirely on volunteers. Some states recognize only native species, though others, including Arkansas and Georgia, allow non-native naturalized trees, and Florida includes non-invasive naturalized species. Invasive species and cultivars are almost always excluded.
If you’ve ever dreamed of finding a record-breaking tree, you’re in luck- many states have long lists of species without a current champion. Nominations for the National Register all start at the state level, making local participation essential. It’s a great excuse to get outside, explore forests and parks, and maybe even discover the next champion tree!
Illinois Big Tree Registry
Here in Illinois, our Big Tree Registry tracks 184 eligible native species. However, debates occasionally arise over which species should be included or excluded. Trees in Illinois must be remeasured every 10 years, though for many years, the program was neglected due to lack of funding. Recent efforts have helped update records, but some previously recorded champions could not be found, and others had died in the meantime.
One notable rule change in Illinois involves double-trunked trees. Previously, trees with multiple trunks were allowed if their total circumference qualified them as champions. Now, a tree with multiple trunks can only be eligible if one trunk alone meets the minimum size requirement. This change helps ensure fair comparisons between single-stemmed trees and those with multiple leaders.
Like other state registries, Illinois recognizes co-champions if two trees score within 3% of each other. With so many species still lacking a recorded champion, there are plenty of opportunities for tree lovers to explore and contribute to the list.
Why Do Champion Trees Matter?
Big trees are more than just impressive statistics- they are essential to the environment. Large, mature trees absorb far more carbon than younger ones, making them critical allies in the fight against climate change. According to the Native Tree Society, one mature canopy tree is equivalent to 35 young canopy trees, 151 typical street trees, or 465 new landscape trees. They also provide essential habitat, shade, and air purification, playing a vital role in their ecosystems.
Beyond their environmental impact, these trees connect us to history. Some have stood for centuries, witnessing generations of people come and go. Others serve as landmarks or cultural touchstones, like ancient council trees or trail marker trees used by Indigenous peoples. And if we work to protect them, they’ll be here for the next generations to enjoy too, serving as a bridge between the past and the future. Protecting and celebrating these giants ensures that future generations can experience their beauty and importance firsthand.
Get Involved: Go Find a Champion Tree!
Champion trees can be anywhere, from deep in the woods to your own backyard. If you know of a tree that seems unusually large for its species, it could be the next champion! Anyone can participate by measuring trees, submitting nominations, or simply encouraging appreciation for these incredible giants.
Whether you’re hiking in a state park, exploring your neighborhood, or tending your own land, keep an eye out for trees that stand out. Every champion tree starts as a seed, and with time, care, and a little luck, the next record-breaking tree could be one you helped nurture.
Let’s get outside, find some giants, and celebrate the incredible trees that shape our landscapes and our lives.
Big Tree Registers
- National Champion Tree Program: https://nationalchampiontree.org/
- List of State Big Tree Programs: https://nationalchampiontree.org/state-programs/
Jennifer Milakovic Nelson is a member of the Wild Ones Greater Kane County (IL) Chapter. She spends most of the year traveling the country in an RV, exploring native landscapes and botanizing in new places. She shares her travel adventures at roamingnelsons.com.