The Tree of the Year award celebrates an extraordinary tree that holds deep significance in its community. Trees tell stories, support wildlife, and contribute to the health of our environment. They stand as symbols of natural beauty and resilience, inspiring us to connect with and protect the green spaces around us.
In addition to our Tree of the Year award, we also celebrate 3 honourable mentions. These trees may not be the tallest or oldest but hold a special place in our hearts. Each of these trees embodies unique characteristics, from being beloved wildlife habitats to helping combat climate change. Let’s explore this year’s winners and discover their special stories.
Honourable Mentions
Living Legend
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- Tree Species: Bur Oak
- Location: New Hamburg
Our “Living Legend” is a Bur Oak near the Nith River in New Hamburg, a cherished family heirloom. Ninety-three years ago, a young boy planted an acorn on his bedroom windowsill. After his untimely passing at age 10, his family honoured his memory by planting the sapling in their yard. Today, this majestic tree, with a trunk spanning 3 feet wide, stands as a memorial and a reminder of nature’s healing presence—showing how trees can hold personal and cultural value. For the best view, look downriver from the Hartman Bridge in New Hamburg!
Habitat Hero
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- Tree Species: Silver Maple
- Location: Cherry Park Neighbourhood, Kitchener
This year’s “Habitat Hero” is a towering Silver Maple in the Cherry Park neighbourhood. This grand old tree serves as a sanctuary for wildlife, providing a home to numerous bird species. As nearby mature trees were cut down for redevelopment, the importance of this Silver Maple has grown, offering shade and uplifting the spirits of local families. Its presence also supports a larger food web, sustaining insects, birds, and small mammals that contribute to the area’s biodiversity.
Carbon Captain
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- Tree Species: Bitternut Hickory
- Location: New Hamburg
The “Carbon Captain” award goes to an impressive Bitternut Hickory in New Hamburg, a champion in the fight against climate change. Over a century old, this resilient tree plays a crucial role in carbon sequestration, embodying a commitment to a sustainable future. Mature trees like this one are especially valuable, as they capture and store significantly more carbon than younger trees, making them essential allies in our climate action efforts.
Tree of the Year Winner: Goliath
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- Tree Species: Bur Oak
- Location: Township of Woolwich
Goliath, a towering Bur Oak and this year’s Tree of the Year is a giant among trees and a symbol of resilience in Woolwich Township. Estimated to be around 280 years old, Goliath stands along the Bur Oak Trail, a scenic two-kilometer path developed by Dennis Martin, whose family has owned the land since the 1940s.
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Goliath’s vast trunk anchors this beloved trail, which stretches through over 50 acres of biodiverse woodlots featuring legacy trees and new succession species like Tulip Trees, Black Maples, Sycamore and Northern Catalpas. Known for withstanding storms, disease, and the test of time, Goliath also plays a vital role in supporting local wildlife and capturing carbon, highlighting the ecological importance of preserving mature trees for generations to come. This ancient tree continues to welcome visitors, offering a peaceful reminder of nature’s endurance and beauty.
If you are interested in visiting the Bur Oak Trail, you can email Dennis Martin at winterose@netflash.net to request a tour.
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Congratulations once again to our winners! These trees enrich our shared environment, showcasing their roles in sustaining wildlife and combating climate change. They are more than just plants, they are living heritage, vital habitats, and symbols of hope. Take a moment to appreciate the trees in your own community!
Visit treetrust.ca for more information on how you can help preserve our local legacy trees in Waterloo Region.
This year’s Tree of the Year campaign was sponsored by the Echo Foundation.