What is Union County Great Trees?

Union County Great Trees is a program launched through a collaborative effort between N.C. Cooperative Extension and Union County Government. The Union County Great Trees program celebrates our rich natural heritage by identifying the largest trees of each species in Union County. Large trees provide the greatest benefits to people where we work and live. For example 30 trees of 1 inch diameter provide much less benefits than 1 tree that is 30 inches diameter. Exceptionally large trees are also usually exceptionally old, often more than 100 years old. White oaks can live for 200-350 years, or more. So these trees are often historically significant and irreplaceable. Large old trees provide a sense of permanency and sense of place. They are an important resource for variety in the gene pool. They serve as a living reminder of how large and old a particular species may become. The oldest of the species also act as a living library of climate changes that have taken place over hundreds and in some cases thousands of years.

What is N.C. Cooperative Extension?

N.C. Cooperative Extension connects farmers, agribusinesses, and communities with vital research-based information and technology. Research at NC State University targets society’s grand challenges. Extension delivers this research directly into the hands of North Carolinians, helping them to translate knowledge into everyday solutions. Your N.C. Cooperative Extension in Union County office has staff members that are knowledgeable on a wide range of subject matter. With Union County being the 3rd largest agriculture producing county in North Carolina, Union County Cooperative Extension has a large supporting network of staff members to ensure that everyone from backyard gardeners and beekeepers to self-employed poultry and field crop producers have a resource for educational assistance and technical advice. N.C. Cooperative Extension in Union County is committed to restoring and expanding Union County's urban forest. We welcome involvement from the community. Please reach out to us so we may assist with any questions, or concerns you may have. For additional information, resources, and contact information visit the Union County Cooperative Extension website.