ANNAPOLIS, Md. — The Maryland Forest Service and the Maryland Forestry Foundation have launched the “Maryland 250” White Oak Contest to mark America’s 250th anniversary, inviting residents and visitors to explore Maryland’s state forests in search of the largest white oak trees.
Cash prizes of up to $500 will be awarded to those who locate the five largest qualifying specimens on eligible public lands. The contest runs from May 1 through Dec. 31, 2026, and focuses exclusively on the white oak, Quercus alba, Maryland’s official state tree.
State forests are distinct from state parks. Within the Chesapeake Forest Lands, only white oaks located on public hunting lands qualify for entry. The Maryland Big Tree Program committee administers the contest.
White oaks rank among Maryland’s most ecologically valuable tree species. They supply critical wildlife habitat, help protect water quality and help shape the overall character of the state’s forests. Yet only one white oak has so far been officially recognized as a “Big Tree” within any Maryland state forest land, leaving room for new champion trees to be identified during the coming months.
Participants follow a precise set of steps to ensure accurate submissions. Before heading into the field, mark a string at the 13-foot point and allow extra length for potentially larger trees. Bring a measuring tape, a marker and the prepared string to the site. Once a large white oak is located, measure its circumference at 4 feet 6 inches above the ground. On sloped terrain, take the measurement from the uphill side.
If the circumference exceeds 13 feet, mark the updated length on the string and photograph the tree with a person standing beside it for scale. Capture four additional photographs, one from each cardinal direction, and include images of the leaves when possible. Photograph the marked string to document the final circumference. Record GPS coordinates if available, or supply a detailed map and written directions.
All information — measurements, location details, photographs and contact information — must be emailed to John Bennett at mdbigtreeprogram@aol.com. The Maryland Big Tree Program will re-measure every submitted tree. Winners will be notified after the contest concludes at the end of the year.
Eligibility rules are clear and strict. Only living white oaks qualify. Trees must exceed 13 feet in circumference. Any specimen with ivy or other growth that could artificially enlarge the trunk measurement is ineligible; contact Joli McCathran at 301-996-7599 to verify questionable trees. Multi-trunk trees must split at or above 5 feet from the ground. Standing dead trees are excluded.
The contest continues a tradition established last year when the Maryland Big Tree Program celebrated its centennial with a similar statewide search. In 2025 the top three finishers were Nick Smalley, who found a yellow poplar in Cedarville State Forest; John Hudock, who located a yellow poplar in Elk Neck State Forest; and Alex Vargo, who discovered a yellow poplar in Stoney Demonstration Forest.
The Maryland Big Tree Program, operated by the Maryland Forestry Foundation in partnership with the Maryland Forest Service, maintains the largest database of champion and notable trees in the United States. Nominations for big trees of other species remain open year-round through the program’s regular channels.
For Southern Maryland residents, the contest presents an accessible way to engage with the state’s natural heritage. Cedarville State Forest, already recognized in last year’s contest, lies within easy reach and offers prime habitat for potential white oak champions. Families, hikers and outdoor enthusiasts can turn a day in the woods into a meaningful contribution to Maryland’s tree records while enjoying public lands during the anniversary year.
Organizers emphasize that the effort goes beyond competition. Each verified submission adds to the scientific understanding of Maryland’s forest resources and highlights the enduring value of the white oak. With eight months remaining until the December deadline, participants have ample time to plan outings, follow the measurement guidelines carefully and submit their findings.
The “Maryland 250” White Oak Contest blends celebration, education and conservation. By encouraging public involvement in documenting the state’s largest trees, officials hope to deepen appreciation for Maryland’s forests at a time when the nation reflects on its 250-year history. Full contest details, including additional nomination information for other big-tree species, are available on the DNR website.
