Nominations for trees that may be the largest of their species in Tompkins County will be accepted throughout November. Past human winners have ranged from elementary school classes to senior citizens. On the Cornell campus, previous Big Tree winners include a dawn redwood along Plantations Road, a big leaf magnolia, and a Cornelian cherry next to the Plantations headquarters building, a catalpa in the Young Garden, an American sweetgum outside the arboretum entrance, and a black birch within the arboretum. Certificates are awarded for each tree champion. Besides Cornell Plantations, the Big Tree search is sponsored by Cayuga Landscape Co., Cascadilla Tree Service, Level Green Landscaping, Saunders Greenhouse and Garden Center, Coastal Lumber Co. and Baker's Acres.
Additional sponsors are welcome.
The entry form to nominate a Big Tree includes instructions on how to measure the trunk circumference, crown spread, and height of your tree and how to submit nominations. Entry into the contest is free.