National Tree or National Treasure?
If a tree doesn't have to be a native to the entire country, then the Redwood's mighty stature could qualify it as a candidate, but while redwoods are well known are they truely National in scope? Oaks are prevalent across most of the US, but should we not decide on one species and not a large genre? With all due respect to Ben Franklin, the turkey oak is hardly National in stature. Pines too are wides spread, but like the oaks there are a few in the genra that leave me less than enthralled as National emblems. And the genra Acer, Maples....well, the Sugar Maple is truely majestic, but those Norway Maples, silver maples and boxelders sure leave me unimpressed.
So where am I going? While, yes I question the desirability of naming a National Tree for the U.S., I certainly support the concept that trees are a National Treasure. MY suggestion is that we declare that trees are our National Treasure, a treasure available to all, generating benefits for all. Each and every tree species has its place, its niche where it can and will live and bless the earth with benefit. We should celebrate the diversity of trees we have, not try to single one out as "superior" to all others.
The official adoption of a National Symbol requires and act of congress. Even if the NAF does come out of this poll with a clearcut (pun unintended) leader, congress is bound to be divided by the selection process. This would become an emotional issue. I see trees as our country's salvation, not cause for its further polarization.
In short I can only wish that the NADF had decided to first ask Americans "IF" they thought it would be desireable to name a National Tree, and used such a poll to educate Americans about the values of their trees. They (NADF) and we (Americans) could have learned so much. For ultimately, the NADF is using this poll as an educational tool, a tool to encourage us to learn more about the trees around us. Great cause. A poll that would have allowed us to decide if we really preferred the concept of diversity that nature offers us could have offered us so much more.
As it is the NADF is in the midst of its poll and if you are interested in offering your opinion you may do so at the NADF
Latest Articles