MDC CERTIFIES STATE CHAMPION TUPELO AT ALLRED LAKE IN BUTLER COUNTY

MDC CERTIFIES STATE CHAMPION TUPELO AT ALLRED LAKE IN BUTLER COUNTY – The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) recently certified a new state champion tupelo tree at Allred Lake in Butler County. MDC Resource Forester Mark Pelton waded out in hip-deep water to measure the tupelo that stands in Al lake.

The tree has a circumference of 322 inches, a height of 90 feet and a crown spread of 46 feet. Using a formula that accounts for these three major measurements, and scores of contending trees for comparison, Pelton confirmed the tupelo is the largest known in the state.

“Based on these measurements, the tree is well over a hundred years old,” Pelton said.

The Missouri State Champion Tree Program recognizes all native tree species, large or small.  When a state champion tree dies, the next largest contender of that species on file becomes the new champion.

In an effort to help generate awareness and appreciation for our state’s trees and forests, MDC invites everyone to join in the search for Missouri’s champion trees.

To learn more about the State Champion Tree Program visit short.mdc.mo.gov/Z.