Woods Wise Wire
Since 1968, the Maine Forest Service has published a list of the largest known specimens of native and naturalized trees in Maine. The most recent published Register of Big Trees contains 159 trees, representing 149 species. Of these, we have been notified of several that have died or lost points due to tops blown off or branch shedding.
One such example is the Northern Red Oak (Quercus rubra). The long-time state champion located in Vienna finally succumbed to advanced age. The new co-champion is a tree we have known about for many years, one that waited patiently in second place. This tree is located on public property owned by the City of Augusta, situated on the banks of the Kennebec River.
To determine if a tree is a champion, the Maine Forest Service gives each tree a score based on a formula that adds circumference in inches, height in feet, and ¼ of the crown spread in feet. The Augusta red oak has a circumference of 242” (dbh = 77”), a height of 90’, and an average crown spread of 89’ for a total point value of 354.
We are often asked to provide the age of champion trees. This can be incredibly difficult without expensive equipment or invasive measures. Typically, looking at the landscape and land-use history provides clues as to age, and this tree is a great example. Much of the land surrounding the tree was cleared for the construction of the adjacent U.S. Arsenal and Augusta Mental Health Institute in the 1830’s and 1840’s. It is evident this tree was left behind when the land was cleared, as it demonstrates it was grown in the open with its large and spreading crown structure. It’s fair to say the tree is at least 200 years old, possibly older.
First nominated to the register in 1983 by then MFS regional entomologist George LaBonte, the tree sits within short walking distance of both the MFS and Maine Woodland Owners headquarters. To see the tree yourself, use coordinates 44°18'16.10"N, 69°46'17.86"W; or Maine Atlas and Gazetteer, map 76, quadrant C3. Locate the intersection of Blossom Lane and Arsenal Street. Just downhill from this intersection there is an unmarked trail leading to the river’s edge south of the Kennebec Arsenal. The trail passes directly by the tree.
For more information on Maine’s Register of Big Trees and to receive a copy of the new Register when available, please contact Jan Santerre, Big Tree Coordinator, at the Maine Forest Service, 22 State House Station, Augusta, ME 04333 or call 1-800-367-0223. The Register can also be viewed by visiting the Project Canopy website: http://www.projectcanopy.me
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