Tall white pine trees tower above others on an Upper Peninsula of Michigan lake. Photo by Mark Videan.
From staff reports
Releaf Michigan invites the public to be on the hunt for big trees during its 15th biennial Big Tree Hunt Contest. If you know of a Michigan tree you think might be a winner, submit photos and one measurement of the tree’s girth (circumference) by August 19 to bigtreehunt.com.
Places to find big trees are mentioned In the nonprofit organization’s handout, which states: “Big trees are everywhere: in parks, along sidewalks or even your backyard. So, take some time to enjoy fresh air and the majesty of the trees that surround us,”
Prizes will be awarded to individuals in the following categories: those 16 years and above who find the largest tree; those 15 years and younger who find the largest tree; the largest white pine, Michigan’s state tree; the largest tree in each county, and any tree species that is larger than the current registered Michigan State Champion. All participants may attend an awards ceremony to be held later this year.
The largest trees are nominated for the State Champion Tree List, and some could be entered into the National Register of Big Trees.
The contest was born in 1993 as an enjoyable way for residents to get outdoors and appreciate the mitten state’s beauty and also gather information for the organization about Michigan’s largest trees. ReLeaf Michigan describes these giants as “vital, historical, living monuments.”
Entry forms are available at National Forest Service headquarters or you can enter online at bigtreehunt.com. Contact ReLeaf Michigan at 800-642-7353 or bigtreehunt@releafmichigan.org.
ReLeaf Michigan and community partners work together to plant trees and educate the public about proper tree care. Since 1988, they have planted 30,000 trees in Michigan. Find more about the organization at: releafmichigan.org.
