Cornell Plantations and other tree-friendly groups in Tompkins County are gearing up for the fourth annual Big Tree Search, a contest that aims for year-round tree appreciation. Nominations for trees that may be the largest of their species in Tompkins County will be accepted throughout November.

In the past three years, Big Tree certificates were awarded to the nominators of 85 different tree species, but "many common species remain to be nominated," according to Ithaca's city forester, Andy Hillman. Duncan Hilchey of Cornell's Farming Alternatives Program, who came up with the idea for the Tompkins County tree search, said, "We were especially excited about the range of participants."

Past human winners have ranged from elementary school classes to senior citizens. On the Cornell campus, previous Big Tree winners include a dawn redwood along Plantations Road, a big leaf magnolia, and a Cornelian cherry next to the Plantations headquarters building, a catalpa in the Young Garden, an American sweetgum outside the arboretum entrance, and a black birch within the arboretum. Certificates are awarded for each tree champion.

Besides Cornell Plantations, the Big Tree search is sponsored by Cayuga Landscape Co., Cascadilla Tree Service, Level Green Landscaping, Saunders Greenhouse and Garden Center, Coastal Lumber Co. and Baker's Acres. Additional sponsors are welcome.

The entry form to nominate a Big Tree includes instructions on how to measure the trunk circumference, crown spread, and height of your tree and how to submit nominations. These forms are available at Cornell Plantations, Cornell Cooperative Extension or the Cayuga Nature Center, or by sending a self-addressed, stamped envelope to: Cornell Plantations, One Plantations Road, Ithaca, NY 14853. Entry into the contest is free. More information is available from Ruth Nix at (607) 255-2408 or Andy Hillman at (607) 272-1718.