By: Ag. Reporter Mollie Goode
Madisonville’s Mahr Park Arboretum has received state recognition for the location with Kentucky’s largest Winged Elm tree.
The recognition was made through the Kentucky Division of Forestry and confirmed that the Winged Elm is the largest specimen of its kind in the state.
The tree will be added to the Kentucky Champion Tree Registry because of its whopping 103” trunk circumference, 96” height, and 61’ spread for a total point of 214.25. The tree far exceeded the typical measurements of 40-50 feet high with a 30 to 40 feet spread.
According to a news release from the City of Madisonville, the nomination and recognition of the beautiful tree wouldn’t have been possible without the help from Matthew Strong, Chief Forester Madisonville Branch, and Forester Miranda Gatto for nominating and measuring the tree.
Park Superintendent Ashton Robison says it is an honor to receive the state recognition and the city is so thankful for Mahr’s gift of beautiful land to Madisonville. He encourages everyone to witness the magnificent tree by visiting the parks website or stopping by Madisonville’s Welcome Center.