The state Department of Land and Natural Resources is inviting the public to submit entries in American Forests’ National Big Tree Program.
The Big Tree Program seeks the largest trees of their species in the U.S.
The public is invited to submit nominations for candidates of the following species:
Koa, lama, wiliwili, ohia ha, Malaysian apple, white hibiscus, hibiscus, red Kauai hibiscus, Hawaiian holly, kolea lau nui, Hawaiian olive, papala kepau, Hawaiian sumac, soapberry, mamane, Oahu prickly-ash, paper mulberry, coconut, sea hibiscus, soapberry wingleaf and hopbush.
People nominating a tree need to provide trunk circumference (in inches), height (feet) and average crown spread (feet). These are combined to assign the tree a score. DLNR needs to know the exact location to verify candidates. Photographs should be included in submissions.
To learn more about the specific measuring requirements, please review the guidelines at the American Forests website, www.americanforests.org/our-programs/bigtree/big-tree- measuring-guidelines.
Send measurements by Feb. 1 along with GPS coordinates or specific directions to a candidate big tree to Hannah Bergemann, DLNR Division of Forestry and Wildlife, 1151 Punchbowl Street, Room 325, Honolulu, HI96813.
Last year six trees from Hawaii gained recognition:
» A koa in Kona Hema Preserve, Hawaii.
» Two coconut trees in Kapuaiwa Coconut Beach Park, Molokai.
» A hau at Hulihee Palace, Hawaii.
» An aalii at Maui Nui Botanical Gardens.
» A manele at Kipuka Puaulu, Volcano National Park.
