Trees of Tennessee

Tennessee owes much of its reputation as the greenest state in the US to the magnificent trees in its ample forests. Trees of Tennessee celebrates some of the grandest of these trees with a story to tell that has a part in the history of the state. Featured trees come from initiatives of the Tennessee Urban Forestry Council’s programs such as the Registry of Landmark, Historic and Heritage Trees and the Council’s photography exhibit of state notable trees. Many are champions—several are national recognized. Read their stories to appreciate their significance fully.

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Trees have a huge impact on what makes the state of Tennessee special, from its mountain forests to its verdant woodlands and its marshy glades. Now many of these trees share their stories through the book, Trees of Tennessee published by the Tennessee Urban Forestry Council to commemorate the Council’s 25th anniversary. Trees of Tennessee celebrates some of the most significant trees throughout the state.

Trees offer many qualities that help to insure our very existence on this planet. They are responsible for the air we breathe, and their colors offer a vibrancy to our everyday lives. Tennessee is fortunate in that the state is blessed with an abundance of trees. Because of the immense importance of trees to the health of its citizens, the Tennessee Urban Forestry Council has honored many of the state’s trees through this timeless book. Trees of Tennessee features more than 150 images and entries for 70 remarkable trees, complemented by fascinating facts, tall tales, and historic legends.

Trees of Tennessee is divided into three sections: West, Middle and East. Each listing contains tree identification characteristics, measurements for champion trees and historical context for landmark and heritage trees. Notable entries include the 500 year-old Daniel Boone Beech (the only known living tree with carvings made by Boone during his travels). Another entry, the Samuel Smith White Pine stands as a market for helicopters arriving at the Fort Campbell army base. Nature lovers and historians everywhere are sure to find fascinating information that sheds new light on the history of the Volunteer State.

The book begins with a foreword by Josiah Lockard, former president of the Council, as well as an introduction by Gene Hyde—co-founder and the Council’s first president—who serves as City Forester for Chattanooga. All profits directly fund the Tennessee Urban Forestry Council’s urban forestry initiatives.

Tennessee Urban Forestry Council

For more than twenty-five years, the Tennessee Urban Forestry Council has promoted healthy and sustainable urban and community forests.

The Council conducts outreach initiatives and tree recognition programs, including an urban forestry conference held yearly, educational programs relative to tree health, and a statewide speaker’s bureau. The Council’s Centers of Excellence help to enhance its programs in the three regions of Tennessee.

A major initiative of the Tennessee Urban Forestry Council is its arboretum program which has certified more than eighty arboreta statewide.