Heritage Tree Program

Celebrating the Trees That Shape Our Community


The Parks and Recreation Board has created a Heritage Tree Program for the City of Huber Heights. Information regarding the program is listed below. To nominate a tree for recognition, please complete the Heritage Tree Nomination Form 2025.

2025 Honorees will be listed on this page after Labor Day.

Purpose

The Heritage Tree Program honors exceptional trees in Huber Heights and encourages their care, appreciation, and long-term preservation.
 The program aims to:

  • Educate the community about remarkable trees
  • Promote proper care of Huber Heights’ unique urban canopy
  • Highlight the ecological value of tree diversity across the city

Program Details

  • Up to 10 Heritage Trees will be recognized each year on various properties, including Residential, Commercial, and Public Spaces
  • Trees must be native to the region.
  • Nominations may be submitted by property owners or neighbors using the Heritage Tree Nomination Form 2025.
  • City volunteers will verify tree details and secure property owner permission prior to selection

If selected, the honoree will:

  • Receive a Heritage Tree plaque to display on-site from Labor Day to Halloween (approx. 8 weeks)
  • Be recognized in City publications and social media
  • Have their tree added to the City’s Heritage Tree registry, preserving its recognition for future generations

What Qualifies as a Tree?

For this program, a tree is defined as a perennial plant with a single woody trunk that grows to a significant height and develops a full canopy.
Note: Shrubs, bushes, fruit trees, and ornamental species are not eligible.

Selection Criteria

The City of Huber Heights Parks & Recreation Board will award plaques based on their judgement and consideration. Trees must meet at least one of the following:

1. Outstanding Size or Age

  • Recognized as unusually large or old for its species
  • Must rank in the 50th percentile or above for its species according to the Ohio Big Tree Champion Program
  • Evaluated using the National Tree Benefit Calculator for its positive impact on stormwater, air quality, energy savings, and property value

2. Exceptional Form or Rarity

  • Unique shape, striking beauty, or rare species for the area
  • Judged on health and visual appeal
  • Consideration given to its contribution to local tree diversity, based on city canopy data

3. Notable Story or Community Significance

  • A tree with a special backstory: historical, cultural, or personal
  • May be tied to events, landmarks, or community members
  • Judged based on the narrative provided by the applicant