Still Time To Enter NFA Tree Contest

The Newtown Forest Association, Inc (NFA) is still accepting entries in its search for the largest New England sugar maple (Acher saccharum) in Newtown. More than 20 applications have already been submitted, which NFA members will be verifying. The contest is meant to identifying the largest living tree of this specific species while raising environmental awareness and presenting an educational opportunity.

The tree is the largest American maple, and can reach 30 to 37 meters tall. The leaves change into bright yellow and red-orange colors in fall. The sugar maple is a hardwood native to the Northeastern United States, and is one of the signatures trees of New England.

The Newtown Forest Association invites all Newtown residents and organizations to enter the Largest Sugar Maple Tree Contest. A cash prize of $250 will be awarded to the first person that has officially reported the location of Newtown’s largest specimen. To enter, complete the form found at www.newtownforestassociation.org/treecontest2006.html.

All entries must be received by August 15. Trees must be located in Newtown, and all contestants must have the owner’s permission before entering private land.

For information on NFA, visit www.newtownforestassociation.org or call 270-3650.