The Treasured Tree Program is accepting nominations for the 2008 Treasured Tree awards now through October 15, 2008. The program seeks to document and preserve trees that have significant value to the greater community as well as promote the awareness, benefit, and value of trees to the community. The program is sponsored by the City of Columbia and the Columbia Tree and Appearance Commission.

Trees of superior size or stature can be nominated, but trees associated with historical events are also eligible, as are trees noteworthy for their aesthetic or sentimental value, their scarcity, or even because they are great trees to climb or swing from.

Groups of trees will also be considered for designation when their plurality contributes to their significance. Nominated trees can be located on public or private property and can be nominated by anyone.

Trees should be located in the Greater Columbia Metropolitan area, and preference will be given to trees in loca- tions accessible for public viewing. Nominations of trees located on private property require the signature of the property owner granting the Treasured Trees program access to the property in order to examine, measure, and photograph the nominated tree.

The program accepts nominations from the public at large. The nominations are reviewed and narrowed by the program committee. Final decisions are made by the CTAC members and must be by a unanimous vote. A maximum of 12 trees each calendar year can be selected to receive the Treasured Tree designation. There is not a minimum requirement.

Deadline for nominations is October 15, 2008. Send nominations providing your name and contact information along with a description and location of the tree. If available, please include a photo and story of the tree to City of Columbia, Forestry and Beautification Division, 2910 Colonial Drive, Columbia, SC 29203, attention: Amy Bledsoe.

For more information call (803)545- 3865 or email ahbledsoe@columbiasc.net