MFC invites public to help identify Champion Trees

Last updated: September 7, 2026

MFC invites public to help identify Champion Trees. VICKSBURG, Miss. (VDN)The Mississippi Forestry Commission is inviting Mississippians to help identify and celebrate some of the largest and most remarkable trees in the state through the Mississippi Champion Tree Program.

The program recognizes the largest known trees of eligible species in Mississippi. Through the Mississippi Champion Tree Registry, the MFC maintains a statewide record of exceptional trees and encourages citizens to help identify, document, and celebrate Mississippis remarkable trees.

Mississippi is home to some truly extraordinary trees, and many of them can be found in places we pass every day 0 in backyards, parks, communities, farms and forests, said MFC’s Mississippi Champion Tree Coordinator and Urban & Community Forestry Partnership Coordinator, Loren Erickson. We want Mississippians to help us identify these trees, document them, and make sure they receive the recognition they deserve.

Nominations are accepted annually from September through February, and anyone may nominate a tree.

Trees are evaluated based on three measurements:

• Trunk circumference 0 measured in inches at approximately 4.5 feet above the ground.
• Total height 0 measured in feet from the ground to the highest point of the tree.
• Average crown spread 0 measured in feet using multiple crown-spread measurements.

A trees total score is calculated using the formula:

Circumference + Height + c Average Crown Spread

The tree with the highest point total for each eligible species is recognized as the Mississippi State Champion for that species. In some cases, two or more trees may be recognized as Co-Champions when their scores are exceptionally close.

The MFC reviews nominations as they are received and prioritizes the highest scores. MFC staff will verify potential champions and will contact the nominator or tree owner.

Trees must have been measured within the previous 10 years to remain eligible for the registry. Current champions and potential champions will be reverified as needed.

Champion trees can be found throughout Mississippi. The MFC encourages residents to keep an eye out for trees that stand out from the rest.

Mississippi Champion Tree Nomination

How to Nominate a Champion Tree

To nominate a tree, complete the Mississippi Champion Tree Nomination Form and provide the required tree information, measurements, photographs, and location information.

Submit a Champion Tree Nomination

For questions about the Mississippi Champion Tree Registry, nominations, measurements, or verification, contact Loren Erickson, Mississippi Champion Tree Coordinator, with the MFC Urban & Community Forestry Program at lerickson@mfc.ms.gov or 601-278-3330.

For more information about the Mississippi Forestry Commission and its programs, visit mfc.ms.gov.