We recognize that the land where we work and learn is the traditional territory of the Eastern Pequot, Golden Hill Paugussett, Lenape, Mashantucket Pequot, Mohegan, Nipmuc, and Schaghticoke peoples. For generations, these communities have cared for and stewarded this land. We honor their enduring strength and resilience and strive to uphold our responsibilities to the land and its people.
White Oak trees have shaped Connecticut’s landscapes and communities for centuries. They hold deep ecological, cultural, and historical significance, including enduring connections to Indigenous peoples who have cared for and lived alongside these forests for generations.
In 2026, as the United States marks the 250th Anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, we reflect on our shared histories, the lasting presence of the White Oak, and its continued importance to communities across the state.
The White Oak Heritage project is a UConn Extension Forestry initiative, supported by the UConn Forest Crew, CT Humanities, and CT DEEP Forestry, to celebrate Connecticut’s most iconic tree. We invite you to explore our project milestones and partner activities through our interactive StoryMap. As part of a statewide landscape-scale restoration and education effort funded by federal partners, we are working with cities and towns to regrow Connecticut’s canopy for future generations.
Latest Updates
Charter Oak Scion Seedlings
In September, approximately 500 acorns were collected from a documented scion of the original Charter Oak, located at the Nathan Hale Schoolhouse in East Haddam. These acorns were planted in pots and placed in protective frames in UConn. With successful germination expected in April, we anticipate distributing seedlings to towns and conservation organizations, along with guidance on planting and care. Tree Wardens are welcome to assist in this effort.
- White Oak trees have long served as “witness” trees throughout New England. They are large, resilient, and long-lived, often marking boundaries and serving as enduring features of the landscape. Now it’s our turn to witness them. We will host a survey where communities can document the oldest and largest White Oaks locally, creating a statewide map of these remarkable trees. A link to the survey will be shared soon.
- We are arranging to provide White Oak lumber to high school tech arts programs. Students will use the wood to create projects that celebrate the tree’s legacy and the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.
- Conservation organizations, hiking groups, and community clubs will be encouraged to lead White Oak-focused tree walks, woodland workshops, and habitat enhancement activities.
Get Involved
Have questions or want to learn more about our forestry initiatives? Reach out to our team: