What is the Heritage Tree Program?
The Heritage Tree Program is dedicated to the identification and preservation of heritage trees within the City of Wilmington, North Carolina.
Heritage trees are those, which because of their age, rarity, grouping, overall beauty or historical significance represent an important aspect of the city’s history or natural landscape.
Interactive Map of Wilmington's Heritage Trees
List of Wilmington's Heritage Trees
Objectives of the Program
- Identify and catalog “Heritage” trees within the City of Wilmington
- To increase public awareness and appreciation of the value of Heritage and other trees that may add to the beauty and ecology of the city’s natural and urban landscape
Heritage Tree Selection
The city's Urban Arborist and members of the Wilmington Tree Commission are responsible for setting specific criteria for designation, receiving nominations, maintaining the program's database, and providing appropriate recognition to heritage tree owners. Nominations and selections are reported at regular monthly meetings of the Tree Commission.
Heritage Tree Categories and Criteria
To be considered for Heritage status, a nomination for the tree must be submitted to the Tree Commission with the approval of the owner. Trees can be nominated individually or as a collection. Final selection is determined by the Heritage Trees Committee based on specific criteria and recommendations from professional arborists or foresters. Heritage Tree status is granted if the tree meets any or all of the following criteria:
Specimen:
- A tree of exceptional size, form, or rarity.
Size:
- A nominated tree that has a point total that meets or exceeds 75 percent of the current NC Champion tree’s point total. Point totals are determined by this equation:
[vertical height + trunk circumference (4.5 ft. above ground) + average crown spread = point total]
- And any tree with a trunk diameter measured at breast height (dbh) of at least 36 inches
Form or rarity:
- The tree is an outstanding specimen of exemplary form for the species;
- The tree is one of the largest or oldest trees in Wilmington as compared to others of its species;
- The tree is of distinctive form and an unusual species for the area, or is otherwise unique;
- Any tree or grove of trees that have horticultural significance, including but not limited to those which are:
Historic:
- A tree recognized by virtue of its association with or contribution to a historic structure or district, or its association with a noted person or historic event.
- The tree has a documented association with a historical event important to the city or region;
- Any tree or grove of trees that have historical significance, including but not limited to those which were/are:
- Planted as a commemorative;
- Planted during a particularly significant historical era or event; or
- Marking the spot of a historical event.
- The tree was standing at the home of a person who played a role in Wilmington's history as a leader, writer, or other significant contributor; or
- The tree is illustrated in historical sketches, journals, photographs, or writings related to a historic event.
Landmark:
- At landmarks of the city, a neighborhood, or community;
- Trees that mark a special site location
Collection:
- Trees in a notable or significant grove, avenue, or other planting.
- Trees that provide a valuable habitat
Heritage Tree Applications are open!
Heritage Tree Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, year-round, with award recognition in May/June by the City Council. Approved applications received before April will be recognized in May/June, while applications received after April will be recognized the following May/June.
Questions?
Aaron Reese, City Arborist
1702 Burnett Blvd
Wilmington, NC 28401
Email Aaron Reese or call +1-910-341-7852.