Alabama's Champion Tree Program began in 1970, when 28 trees were listed. Modeled after American Forest's Big Tree Program, the Alabama Champion Tree Program is designed to discover, recognize, and celebrate the largest of each native tree species in Alabama. The Forestry Commission uses a formula developed by American Forests to determine the points assigned to a tree. The formula is based on three size measurements – circumference, height, and average crown spread. Points are assigned as follows: one point for each inch of circumference, one point for each foot of height, and one point for each four feet of average crown spread. Instructions for using this formula can be found in the “Champion Trees of Alabama” publication below.
Once a champion is declared, its owner and nominator receive certificates as well as a permanent marker to place near the base of the tree. Even if their tree is later superseded by a larger specimen, owners may keep their sign to commemorate their tree’s moment of fame. Anyone can nominate a tree for this program by completing the online nomination form (below). Please be aware that a nominator must have the owner's permission to nominate and access the tree, and include their contact information on the nomination form.
Before submitting a nomination, we recommend you check the report below to see how big the current champion is, then use our calculator to see how your nominee stacks up.
The Alabama Forestry Commission is charged by state law to protect and sustain our forests. Recognizing special trees through the Champion Tree Program provides an opportunity to celebrate and promote the value of trees, not only for today’s landowners but for future generations of Alabamians as well.
You can enjoy seeing the sizes of Alabama’s largest trees in the report found below, and if you have a larger tree on your own property, feel free to nominate it here on our website.
Online Nomination Form
How does your tree measure up?
This online calculator will give you a rough estimate if your tree is big enough to become the next champion tree. Please compare this to The Champion Trees of Alabama listed below.
Circumference: inches around the stem measured 4.5 feet above the ground
Height: estimate distance in feet from tallest point on the tree to the ground
Spread: average measurement in feet from one side of the drip line to another
Additional Resources
For more information about Alabama Champion Trees, please contact:
Dale Dickens
Phone: (334) 467-7971
Email: Dale.Dickens@forestry.alabama.gov
Mail:
Champion Trees of Alabama
Alabama Forestry Commission
PO Box 302550
Montgomery, Alabama 36130-2550