About the Virginia Big Tree Program

Who we are

The Virginia Big Tree Program began as a 4-H and FFA project in 1970. Today the program is coordinated by the Department of Forest Resources and Environmental Conservation at Virginia Tech. We are a passionate community of tree enthusiasts that includes Virginia Tech faculty and staff, Virginia Cooperative Extension staff, and numerous individual and organizational volunteers from around the state. Our mission is to increase the care and appreciation of all trees – big and small – and educate the Commonwealth about the value of trees and forests.

What we do

The Virginia Big Tree Program maintains a register of the 3 largest specimens of over 300 native, non-native, and naturalized tree species. The register includes information about each tree’s size, location, and unique characteristics. Each tree must be re-certified every 10 years to maintain its status in the register. The Virginia Big Tree Program is affiliated with the National Register of Champion Trees, which is administered by the School of Natural Resources at University of Tennessee. Virginia has consistently ranked among the top-five states for national champion trees.

Program Quick Facts — Click Here

Virginia Big Trees 50th Anniversary Issue, Virginia Forests Magazine — Click Here

Program Contacts

Organizations that Assist with this Program

• Trees Virginia
• Virginia Forestry Association
• Virginia Tree Stewards
• Virginia Master Naturalists
• Virginia Master Gardeners