2022 update: Reported dead by Ethan McLellan (ethanmc4@vt.edu). Height was measured at 75'. Average crown spread was not gathered and was difficult to discern due to invasive species and neighboring walnut. Trunk circumference was 114" (two remaining stems at 15.8" and 20.7" DBH). Two live stems remaining. Significant signs of decay on main stem, specifically visible decay on bole from 2' to 8'. Termite damage evident. Deadwood from large limbs and previous stems surround base of tree. Extensive invasive vine activity around and on pine tree. Canopy is in process of collapse from grape vines and bittersweet. The tree has deteriorated greatly since it was last visited in 2011. Given the extent of canopy invasion by vines and the trunk decay, it is unlikely that the tree will remain alive much longer.
It was an unusual multi-trunk specimen (5 stems) growing on dry hillside above depression wetlands within Accotink stream valley. This old-age pine was most likely a stump sprout that was originally cut to establish grazing or pasture land. One of the five main stems had been sheared off at time of nomination in 2011, but the tree remained healthy, growing within protected parkland. At time of its death, it was the state champion and was the largest pitch pine documented in the big tree register.
Top: G. Zell 2011. Center & Bottom: E. McLellan June 2022.