NH Big Tree ProgramWhat is it and how can you help!

American Elm

Deborah Goard

UNH Cooperative Extension

November 12, 2010

NH Big Tree Program Purpose

• To locate the most outstanding examples of the various tree species which grow in New Hampshire

• To obtain the cooperation of the tree owners to protect and preserve specimens as landmarks for future generations to enjoy

• To stimulate interest in and greater appreciation for trees as a natural resource

Peach Willow

NH Big Tree Program State

• Sponsors– UNH Cooperative Extension– Division of Forests & Lands– Natural Resource Stewards Program

• Currently ~ 322 trees (91 species)

• An additional 35 trees (17 species) not recognized by National Program

• County champions

• State champions

Gray birch

NH Big Tree Program National

• National champions in NH– Balsam Poplar: Cheshire

2008

– Eastern white Pine: Cheshire 2008

– Pitch Pine*: Bradford 1999

– Sweet/Black Birch: Hillsborough 1961

* Denotes co-champion

Eastern white pine

NH Big Tree Program How does it work?

• Nominations

• Measurements

• Database

White ash

NH Big Tree Program Nominations

• Anyone can nominate a big tree

• Identify the species of tree as best you can.

• Using a tape measure, measure the circumference of the trunk in inches at 4 1/2 feet off the ground.

• Compare your circumference measurement to the same species of tree in the NH Big Tree Listings.

• If the circumference of the tree you measured exceeds or is close in size to a tree of the same species on the listing, click here.

Honeylocust

NH Big Tree Program Nominations online

NH Big Tree Program Measurements

• How to measure– Circumference (in)– Height (ft)– Crown spread (ft)

• Add up points– Circumference (in) +

Height (ft) + ¼ Crown Spread (ft) = Score

NH Big Tree Program Database

NH Big Tree Program GIS

NH Big Tree Program GIS

NH Big Tree Program GIS

NH Big Tree Program Website

http://extension.unh.edu/Forestry/BigTree.htm

NH Big Tree Program National

http://www.americanforests.org/resources/bigtrees/

NH Big Tree Program Contacts

• Mary Tebo – UNH Cooperative Extension

• Carolyn Page – Program Coordinator

• Attend a training session

Black Oak