There is Still Time to Help Find Maryland’s Largest Tree

Old green and yellow tree with multiple brunches against the sky.

Marylanders still have a chance to help the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) discover the largest tree growing in one of the state’s forests—but time is running out. The deadline to submit entries is December 31, and the finder of the winning tree could receive up to $500.

Outdoor enthusiasts are encouraged to explore Maryland’s State Forests and document any exceptionally large trees they encounter. Participating is simple and can turn an ordinary winter hike into a fun and potentially rewarding adventure. Here is how to participate:

1. Prepare Before You Hike:

Bring a 15-foot marked string, measuring tape, and a marker.

2. Find a Tree:

While hiking in a Maryland State Forest, look for a large tree. Measure the tree’s circumference at 4 feet 6 inches above the ground (about adult chest height) by wrapping your string around the trunk.

3. If the Tree is a Big One:

If the circumference is larger than 15 feet (past the mark on your string), mark where the string ends around the tree.

Take a photo of the string around the tree with a person standing next to it.

Take four more photos of the tree—one from each side.

If possible, take a photo of the tree’s leaves.

Measure the marked length of the string with a measuring tape and photograph the measurement.

4. Submit Your Entry:

Email the following to John Bennett at mdbigtreeprogram@aol.com:

Tree circumference

Location (GPS coordinates preferred)

Photos

Your name, address, and phone number

Note: Two trees are already recorded and will not count toward this contest: (1) Silver Maple at Green Ridge State Forest (N39.59281, W78.40800); (2) Black Oak at Elk Neck State Forest (N39.54500, W75.94270).

For more information about the contest, visit https://dnr.maryland.gov/forests/Pages/trees/Big-Tree-Centennial-Contest.aspx.