BIG Tree Champions Contest

In honor of Arbor Day, the Homer Glen Environment Committee is searching for the biggest trees in the Village of Homer Glen. Nominations for every species of living tree that exists are encouraged to be submitted. Verification of measurement will be made by the Environment Committee. The largest tree of each species will receive recognition. Residents and stakeholders are encouraged to search in forests, parks, and private property with the permission of the property owner in the Village of Homer Glen. Applications are open until May 1, 2026.

To compare trees, the circumference of each tree is to be measured at 54 inches from the ground level. This year’s nominations must surpass tree champions recognized through 2025.

2025 Big Tree Champion Winners:

1. Suzi & Paul Dulle
   They have identified a White Oak tree with a circumference measurement of 151 inches.
2. Parnell O'Brien
   They have identified a Hop Hornbeam tree with a circumference measurement of 30.5 inches.
3. Woodland Highlands HOA
   They have identified a Swamp White Oak tree with a circumference of 182 inches.
4. David Shepard
   They have identified a Black Maple tree with a circumference of 102.96 inches and a Jack Pine tree with a circumference of 60 inches on Messenger Woods Forest Preserve property.
5. Michelle & Thomas Bain
   They have identified a Gray Poplar tree with a circumference of 141.5 inches.

Thank you to ALL who submitted! We are so pleased we can continue our Big Tree Competition each year.

Submit a Big Tree Champion Application form to Dana Kahn via email or drop off at the Village Hall 14240 W. 151st Street, Homer Glen, IL  60491.

2026 Deadline: May 1, 2026