Every town has that one tree — the towering oak that has watched generations grow up, the old maple that marks a family home, or the backyard giant that has become part of the neighborhood’s identity.

The Greenwich Tree Conservancy is looking for those trees for its eighth annual Treasured Trees Contest. Residents have until Friday, Aug. 1, to nominate a tree on private property and share the story behind it.

The contest recognizes trees for their history, size, beauty, age, unique features or personal meaning. A judging panel that includes the town’s Tree Warden will evaluate submissions, with the story behind each tree carrying the most weight.

Past nominations have included massive specimen trees and longtime family favorites. One previous winner described a copper beech with an 18-foot trunk as a “Swiss Family Robinson” tree because its size seemed big enough for a treehouse.

Any Greenwich resident can nominate a tree on private property, including those at religious organizations and private schools. The nominee must own the tree or receive permission from the property owner.

Tree locations remain private unless the owner allows them to be shared. The nomination does not transfer ownership to the conservancy or the town.

Winning trees will be celebrated Thursday, Oct. 22, at Sam Bridge Nursery & Greenhouses, 437 North St.

Each winning tree will receive a custom nameplate, framed photograph and citation. Winners will also be added to the Greenwich Tree Conservancy’s Treasured Trees roster.

The conservancy, founded in 2007, works to protect and promote Greenwich’s tree canopy and forest resources.

Residents can submit nominations online or mail submissions to:

Greenwich Tree Conservancy
P.O. Box 4215
Greenwich, CT 06831

Questions can be sent to [email protected] or 203-622-7380.

Deadline: Friday, Aug. 1
Celebration: Thursday, Oct. 22, Sam Bridge Nursery & Greenhouses, 437 North St.