Forests_Content Page_Champion Trees

Wisconsin's Champion Trees

A forest of maple trees in autumn.
Due to staffing capacity challenges at this current time, the Wisconsin DNR is unable to respond to Champion Tree Program questions, nominations or requests for information on previously nominated trees at this time. We appreciate your interest in and enthusiasm for the program. Please check back for updates on the program and status of nominated trees.

The Champion Tree Program recognizes and celebrates the state’s largest trees. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources began documenting these trees in 1941 with the help of the community. People around the state discovered these trees in the Northwoods, in neighbors’ yards and along city streets. The program has endured as a result of people such as yourself. We invite you to join us in honoring and preserving Wisconsin’s natural resources heritage.

We are looking to grow our team of inspectors and we invite you to join us. More information is available on our inspectors page.

113
Largest Average Crown Spread (Feet)

157
Tallest Tree (Feet)

355
Largest Trunk Circumference (Inches)

Champion Tree Map

View the locations of all Champion Trees in Wisconsin. Information on all verified trees is also available in a data table.

Launch
A screenshot of the mapping application which shows the locations of champion trees in Wisconsin.

Nominate a Tree

A form for nominating a tree to the program. For more information, see our nomination instructions.

Nominate

Photo credit: Ryan Brady

Privacy Policy

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources may request information from you if you nominate a tree, own the property where a nominated tree is located, or if you serve as a Big Tree Inspector. This information aids in the program's operations and communication efforts.

Information Requested

We will only request information that is needed for the functioning of the Champion Tree program. If you are nominating or inspecting a tree, we may ask for your contact information so that we are able to communicate with you. 

Confidentiality

You have the option to keep certain information confidential if you are nominating or inspecting a tree. You may elect this option when completing the nomination form or inspector application. By selecting this option, the DNR may store your information for program management purposes. However, in the case of a public records request, electing to remain confidential helps us protect your personal information from being disclosed. Note that not all types of information provided may be kept confidential.

Special Considerations for Tree Owners

Many of our nominated trees are located on private property. The DNR has implemented safeguards to protect property owners’ privacy. For example, the DNR requires written consent from the property owner before the nomination may proceed into the inspection phase. The nominator will be responsible for supplying the property owner’s name and contact information on the nomination form. The DNR will then contact the property owner with questions about whether the DNR may publicly share the location of the tree, and if so, how the location may be shared. 

Learn More

View the “Tree Hunter [exit DNR]” film produced by the National Association of State Foresters [exit DNR].

NOTE: Amur cork mentioned in the film are not included on the champion tree list. They were planted decades ago and can no longer be transferred, transported or introduced in Wisconsin (see Wisconsin’s invasive species law NR40 for more information).