Sharing a love for the trees that set Springfield apart
About us
The “Remarkable trees of SGF” program began in 2023 to recognize unique and interesting trees in Springfield, Missouri. The program was started by local foresters, arborists and tree enthusiasts. It’s modeled after some ‘Remarkable Trees’ initiatives elsewhere, notably in Paris, France, and in the state of Virginia.
Urban trees often live for decades in a difficult city environment. Most of them are planted, but some predate the urban development that now surrounds them. Over time, some of these urban trees become extraordinary for many reasons:
They have achieved an impressive height, diameter or crown size.
If they are a native tree, they stand out compared to others of their species.
Or they may be a tree that isn’t native to Missouri, but was planted and is doing well.
They may also have historical and cultural significance to the city of Springfield.
They also can show tenacity in the face of ecological challenges where they are growing.
If you think a tree in your neighborhood is remarkable, tell us about it! Submit some information about your tree along with a picture, and we’ll take a look. After reviewing your submission, we’ll let you know if we add it as a Remarkable Tree of Springfield!
Visiting the Remarkable Trees
We’re delighted that you are interested in the Remarkable Trees of Springfield. We’ve designed the website with an interactive map so that you can see where the trees are located, and learn something about them.
Map locations are approximate — All of these trees are easily seen from the street. We check Google Street View in Google Earth to double check that a tree can be seen from the street. We won’t list any trees on private property that can’t be seen in a Google street view.
Please respect the property rights and privacy of landowners on whose property the Remarkable Trees are located. Trees found on public land such as city parks can of course be seen up close and hands-on. Some trees are listed on public spaces that are the focus of other activity, such as on the campus of Missouri State University; please don’t interfere with the activities of others where those trees might be located. Finally, we insist that you respect the privacy rights of homeowners with trees next to the street or in the yard of a local residence.
If you have any questions or concerns about any trees listed on the website, including if you think a tree should not be listed, please contact us through the ‘Submit a tree’ link on the website.
Authors & Contributors
Author
Dr. Jim Guldin
Forestry research scientist (retired, US Forest Service R&D)
Now living in Southern Hills, Springfield, Missouri
Partners
Lovett Pinetum, Strafford, Missouri (https://lovettpinetum.org)
Contributors
Dr. Chris Barnhart, MSU Biology (retired)
Troy Powell, City of Springfield
Michael Lampe, City of Springfield
Rachel Porter, City of Springfield
Caleb Sanders, Springfield-Greene Co. Parks Board
Webmaster
Will Guldin