Ohio Champion Trees in Delaware County (Lewis Center): A Local Guide to Nature’s Giants

Ohio is home to thousands of remarkable trees, but a special group stands above the rest—Ohio Champion Trees. These trees are recognized for their exceptional size, age, and beauty. In Delaware County, particularly around Lewis Center, several champion and notable trees represent the area’s rich natural heritage.

This guide explains what Ohio Champion Trees are, why they matter, and how you can explore and support these natural treasures in the Lewis Center area.

What Are Ohio Champion Trees?

Ohio Champion Trees are the largest known specimens of their species within the state. They are officially recorded through a statewide program managed by forestry and conservation organizations.

Trees earn champion status based on a point system that measures:

• Trunk circumference

• Total height

• Average crown spread

Each measurement is carefully taken and verified by trained volunteers or forestry professionals.

Why Champion Trees Matter

Champion Trees are more than just big trees. They:

• Preserve genetic diversity

• Provide important wildlife habitat

• Serve as living records of Ohio’s natural history

• Inspire conservation and environmental education

Many of these trees have survived storms, development, and decades of change.

Delaware County’s Rich Tree Heritage

Delaware County is known for its parks, preserves, and expanding communities. Despite growth, the area has maintained strong conservation efforts that protect mature trees and natural landscapes.

Lewis Center, located in southern Delaware County, sits near several green spaces and nature preserves. These areas create ideal conditions for large, healthy trees to thrive.

Common tree species found in the region include:

• White oak

• Red oak

• American sycamore

• Sugar maple

• Tulip tree (yellow poplar)

Some of these species have produced champion or near-champion trees over the years.

Notable Champion and Big Trees Near Lewis Center

Exact champion listings can change as new trees are measured and records are updated. However, Delaware County has historically recorded large specimens in species such as:

• American sycamore

• Northern red oak

• Eastern cottonwood

• Silver maple

Many of these trees are located in:

• Public parks

• Nature preserves

• Golf courses

• Private properties (with owner permission required)

If you’re interested in current records, Ohio’s official Champion Tree Registry is the best source for up-to-date information.

How Champion Trees Are Measured (Step-by-Step)

Understanding the process makes the program more meaningful.

1. Measuring Circumference

The trunk is measured at 4.5 feet above ground level using a tape measure.

2. Measuring Height

Foresters use specialized tools or laser devices to determine total height.

3. Measuring Crown Spread

The widest spread of branches is measured, followed by a second measurement at a right angle.

4. Calculating Points

Each measurement is converted into points and added together.
The tree with the highest score becomes the state champion for that species.

How to Find and Visit Big Trees in Lewis Center

Start with public lands where access is allowed:

• Alum Creek State Park

• Highbanks Metro Park

• Local nature preserves and trails

When visiting:

• Stay on marked paths

• Do not climb or carve into trees

• Avoid compacting soil around roots

These small actions help protect old trees from damage.

How You Can Help Protect Champion Trees

You don’t need to be a forester to make a difference.

Simple Ways to Support Conservation

• Report unusually large trees to local forestry offices

• Volunteer with tree or park organizations

• Plant native trees on your property

• Support local conservation initiatives

Even planting one tree contributes to the future forest.

Pros and Cons of Champion Tree Programs

Pros

• Encourages public awareness

• Promotes tree preservation

• Supports scientific research

• Inspires community pride

Cons

• Some trees on private land can’t be easily accessed

• Measurements require trained volunteers

• Records can become outdated without regular updates

Overall, the benefits far outweigh the challenges.

Common Mistakes People Make (And How to Avoid Them)

Mistake 1: Trespassing to See a Tree

Solution: Stick to public areas or request permission.

Mistake 2: Damaging Bark or Roots

Solution: Observe from a distance and avoid touching sensitive areas.

Mistake 3: Assuming Size Equals Health

Solution: Some large trees may be fragile. Respect barriers and signs.

Mistake 4: Ignoring Young Trees

Solution: Future champions start small. Protect saplings too.

Why Lewis Center’s Trees Deserve Attention

As development continues, mature trees become even more valuable. They cool neighborhoods, improve air quality, reduce stormwater runoff, and create peaceful spaces.

Champion Trees remind us that long-term growth and natural beauty still exist, even in fast-growing communities.

Conclusion

Ohio Champion Trees in Delaware County, including the Lewis Center area, represent living history and natural excellence. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, photographer, student, or casual hiker, exploring these giants can deepen your appreciation for Ohio’s forests.

By learning about them, respecting them, and supporting conservation, you help ensure these remarkable trees remain standing for generations to come.

FAQs

1. What is an Ohio Champion Tree?
A tree recognized as the largest known specimen of its species in Ohio.

2. Are there champion trees in Lewis Center?
The area is near several parks and preserves that have recorded large and notable trees.

3. Can anyone nominate a tree?
Yes. Many programs allow public nominations with proper measurements.

4. Can I visit champion trees on private land?
Only with the landowner’s permission.

5. How often are champion tree records updated?
Updates occur when new trees are measured or existing records are rechecked.