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Huntersville sustainability committee proposes "Treasure Tree" program to celebrate champion trees
Summary
The Town of Huntersville’s Environmental Sustainability Committee presented a plan Nov. 3 to launch a local "treasure tree" recognition program modeled on national and county efforts. The committee asked the board for support and modest in‑house resources, estimating signage and initial program costs of about $1,000 to $2,000.
Members of Huntersville’s Environmental Sustainability Committee presented a progress report and proposed a "Treasure Tree" recognition program to the Town Board on Nov. 3, asking the town to provide modest support to launch nominations, voting and signage.
The program would recognize champion trees (largest of a species), trees with notable features and trees tied to community history. Committee members said the proposal would include a nomination form, a volunteer review board drawn from the committee, quarterly voting, and signage with QR codes to provide information online. "Our goal would be to select the first five trees in time for Arbor Day of 2026," a committee member said.
Resources and costs: Committee presenters said they intend to use existing town communications channels, events and the planned sustainability committee web page, and requested that town sign production be used for tree markers when possible. During questions a committee member estimated a modest budget: "I would not think anything more than a thousand or $2,000 would be the most, I would think," when asked about anticipated costs.
Why it matters: The program is intended to engage residents, encourage tree canopy appreciation and provide educational opportunities for schools and community groups. Committee members pointed to partnerships already underway on creek cleanups and wildlife corridor work and said the program would complement those efforts.
Board response: Commissioners responded positively in the meeting, signaling support for the idea and no formal motion was necessary to receive the presentation. Committee members said they would coordinate next steps with town staff to finalize a web page, nomination process and signage timeline.
