Michigan Big Tree Program

The Big Tree Register data is available through this page. It is published to a google spreadsheet. No data can be added or changed, and information about private individuals and land owners is not included here. 

Nominate a tree for the Michigan Big Tree Program here.>>

How to Measure A Tree>>

Read about the History of the Big Tree Register>>

The Michigan Big Tree register is important for several reasons. First it is a vital record of a precious natural resource. These trees are typically the oldest of their type, and therefore their genetic material is also the oldest and may play a critical role in species preservation. These trees are also growing at the physiological limit for their species, and if global climate change is occurring these trees will likely be the first to be affected. The register is also important because humans have always enjoyed a close relationship with trees. Many of us had a favorite tree from our childhood, a tree that provided shade, adventure, inspiration, or recreation. Trees have also been central to our history and our faith. Consider the metaphors of the "Tree of Life", "Our Family Tree", or "Our Roots", or the role that council trees and trail marker trees have played in our history. The register stands as a record of grand examples of these historically, spiritually, and personally important trees.

On April 30 a new state champion was added to the Michigan Big Tree Register. The eastern red cedar, shown in the photo on the right, Juniperus virginiana, was nominated by Austin Patrie, and it's measurements certified by Don Carra. The tree is located in the Kleinstuck Preserve in Kalamazoo county. 

Its key measurements were girth of 133 inches, height of 101 feet, and average crown spread of 47 feet, for a total point score of 246. This far outdistances the previous champion, which scored 186 points, and is located in the Portland State Game Area. There are a total of 10 eastern red cedars on the current register.