Ann Arbor's Champion Tree program identifies and catalogs the largest tree of each species within the city. The program was created in 1995 to highlight and recognize these amazing trees and increase awareness and appreciation for outstanding trees that help make Ann Arbor "Tree Town."
Every other year, nominations are accepted for prospective Champion Trees. After verification, winners are announced and reign as Champion for two years.
Nominations for 2024 are now open. 
A current list, along with interactive map can be found on the
Champion Tree Map, which provides the species, size, location and the environmental, social and economic benefits of each tree.
The Slippery Elm Champion Tree, pictured here, is located at 2942 Sharon Drive and currently earns 253 Champion Tree Points. It has a circumference of 151 inches, height of 81 feet, and a crown spread of 84 feet. Over the course of a year, this tree provides $171 in energy savings, intercepts 8,637 gallons of stormwater, and sequesters 2,226 pounds of carbon dioxide. All of these amount to about $472 in overall total annual benefits.
Which trees are eligible?
All non-invasive trees are eligible to be nominated.
How is a tree determined to be a champion?
Champion tree status is determined based on a point system calculated using the following formula:
Circumference (in.)+Height (ft.)+1/4 Crown Spread (ft.)= Total Points
The tree with the highest point total becomes the champion for that species.
To nominate a Champion Tree, please use they city's online submission form.
