ReLeaf Michigan Crowned Three New State Champion Trees
The biennial Big Tree Hunt contest recently identified a trio of new record-setting trees across Michigan.
Updated on Oct. 12, 2026 in Botany
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ReLeaf Michigan has officially crowned three new state champion trees following its latest Big Tree Hunt contest. The organization also added five additional trees to the Michigan Big Tree Register during the hunt.
Why it matters
This initiative helps document and protect the largest specimen trees in the state through public participation. These champions are formally recognized in the official state register for their size.
The new champions include an American basswood at 245.5 inches in girth, an eastern cottonwood measuring 319 inches, and a sugar maple measuring 240 inches. These measurements are collected as part of the ongoing biennial competition.
The players
ReLeaf Michigan
This organization promotes the preservation of trees and sponsors the biennial Big Tree Hunt contest.
Town family
This family submitted the Lapeer County sugar maple that was recently crowned as a state champion.
The details
The newly recognized sugar maple in Lapeer County, submitted by the Town family, is notable for having previously survived a lightning strike. These additions update the Michigan Big Tree Register, which continues to identify the state's most significant trees through the biennial hunt.
Timeline
October 12, 2026: New state champion trees were reported.
December: Clayton Town commented on the special sugar maple tree.
The Big Picture
The Michigan Big Tree Register maintains a long-term record of the largest specimens in the state to support botanical preservation. These additions update the catalog and provide essential data for ongoing studies of old-growth and champion tree health.
Residents can participate in the ongoing 17th annual Big Tree Hunt by identifying and submitting large trees for measurement. Documenting these trees contributes to the state's biological records and helps protect significant local specimens.
The takeaway
The registry serves as a vital tool for citizens to engage with their local environment and celebrate the state's natural history. Residents should look for large specimens in their own backyards to participate in the ongoing state hunt.
What happens next
The 17th annual Michigan Big Tree Hunt is currently underway to identify further candidates for the registry.
Further reading
Learn more about local flora and conservation efforts on the Michigan Botany page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Mlive.
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