Heritage Tree Program

Honoring Exceptional Kettering Trees

The City of Kettering Parks, Recreation and Cultural Arts Department is pleased to launch a new initiative called the Heritage Tree Program, recognizing exceptional trees that enhance the character and natural landscape of our community. This celebratory program allows us to appreciate the environmental and aesthetic gifts provided by the remarkable trees around us.

Heritage Tree Award Details:

• Up to 10 trees each year will be awarded throughout the community (residential, commercial, &/or public park).
• After submission, City of Kettering staff will confirm tree details & get owner permission for nomination.
• If awarded, applicants will be provided a plaque to display within the given property for a period of time, Labor Day – Halloween (Approximately 8 weeks).
• A program nomination form–can be submitted by owner or neighboring property owner.
• Applicants who are awarded will be recognized within city publications and social media posts.
• Awarded trees will be added to the City of Kettering Heritage Tree Program database to remain recognized for future years.

Extraordinary Size and/or Age

This criteria is relative to the species of tree being assessed. If given recognition the tree must measure and score at or above the 50th percentile for trees identified by the Native and NonNative Ohio Big Tree Champions Program within its given species. Additionally, the tree will be assessed for its significance due to size and age based on the ecological benefits it provides the community.

Exceptional Form, Beauty, Rarity, etc.

This criteria will be assessed based on the general health and overall aesthetic value that the tree provides the community. Additionally, tree diversity data from the City of Kettering's current inventory will be reviewed to consider if the tree is rare relative to the surrounding urban canopy tree diversity.

Notable Origin

This criteria will be assessed based on the narrative provided by the applicant. Understanding the history of a tree based on the context of the property and/or the applicant will allow for committee members to properly assess a trees significance to the community based on this information.

How we define a tree

A tree is defined as a perennial plant having a single woody main trunk usually characterized by the ability to grow to considerable size and the development of woody branches. *Shrubs, bushes, ornamentals and fruit trees are NOT included.

Download the Heritage Tree Program Application or apply using the form below.