Updated Indiana Big Tree Register includes Putnam champ

The updated Indiana Big Tree Register is now available online for Hoosier big tree lovers.

The register, published every five years, lists the largest tree, or “champion,” of every native state tree species.

Included among those is one champion from Putnam County, a Red Maple found on property owned by Sheila Hubble east of Belle Union at County Road 600 South.

Nominated by District Forester Allen Royer of Greencastle, the tree stands 84 feet high with a circumference of 246 inches and an average crown spread of 97 feet.

That equates to a point value of 354.25, arrived at by adding circumference plus height plus one-fourth of the average crown spread.

Owen County, meanwhile, harbors the champion Black Cherry, White Oak and Canada Plum trees.

The Black Cherry stands 86.5 feet tall with a crown spread of 78.5 feet, while the White Oak is 94.5 feet high with a crown spread of 120 feet. Meanwhile, the Canada Plum is 58.5 feet tall with a crown of 38.5 feet.

The current listing of the biggest trees was open for nominations in 2015. DNR Division of Forestry staff confirmed nominations in 2016.

Several species are still without champions because they have not received a nomination.

Many of the champions are found in open areas such as cemeteries, yards or agricultural fields. With more space and less competition for water and sunlight, trees in these areas can grow to their largest potential.

The Big Tree Register is available online at dnr.IN.gov/forestry/8169.htm.