Champion Tree in Old Town?

Senior Florida Forester Jim Tootle and Forester Kirsten Brannon stand underneath Old Town’s Sugarberry tree. Photo courtesy of Dr. Jennifer Harrison.

By Dr. Jennifer Harrison
January 18, 2021

 

Chis and Amy Hastings recently bought a new home on Garden Street in Old Town. Chris, an arborist, was impressed by the size of a beautiful Sugarberry tree on their property. He knew about the naming of various species as “Champion Trees” and researched both the National and State specifications for Sugarberry trees.

Could their tree could qualify as a Champion? He called in the experts, the Florida Forest Service. On January 15th Florida Forester Kirsten Brannon and Senior Forester Jim Tootle came to measure the tree.

They used instruments to measure the height. Jim Tootle remarked that the canopy is so widespread that it was hard to determine which limb to choose to use as the measure. Independently they both agreed the tree was 77 feet in height. Apparently, the circumference is always measured at the thinnest part of the trunk.

Jim explained that trees often have a very large form as several thick limbs combine to form the trunk. The thinnest part of the trunk, about 18ins from the ground, was 187 inches in circumference.

The Garden Street Sugarberry tree is to be nominated as a possible Florida Champion Sugarberry tree.

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Margaret Kirkland, Amelia Tree Conservancy
3 years ago

Great news!! We need to recognize and save our great trees. Perhaps this tree could also be designated as a Heritage Tree in the City. Contact the Planning & Conservation Department or Amelia Tree Conservancy.

Lynda Bell, Keep Nassau Beautiful
3 years ago

Love seeing this magnificent tree!