Oaks are unique that the species is native to 47 of the 50 United States.
They were an important source of food for Native Americans and wildlife.
They are outstanding trees in nature.
To celebrate the United States 250th Birthday, they are being planted throughout the State of Ohio.
Many municipalities have embraced the idea of planting oaks to increase residents and public officials as to the importance of planting oaks. Perkins Township, in Erie County is one such community that celebrated 250 years by planting a Swamp White Oak on September 8th, 2026.
Police, firefighters, staff, residents and elected public officials hosted and attended the event.
Proper tree planting was demonstrated by Bernie Carr, a certified ISA Arborist and owner of Organic Air Tree Service.
The Ohio State University Master Gardener Program funded an initiative throughout the State of Ohio to plant more oaks. County Master Gardener Programs were offered a $250 rebate on dues if they planted an oak tree.
Earlier this Spring the Ohio State University Erie County Master Gardener sponsored the planting of 2 Swamp White Oak trees. One was planted in front of The OSU Extension and Erie County Offices on Columbus Avenue in March 2026.
Another Swamp White Oak tree was planted in June at Huron’s Dancing Waters Park in collaboration with the youth gardening program at Saint Peter and Paul Catholic Church and the Erie County Master Gardeners.
Barnes Nursery employees, from Sandusky Ohio, demonstrated correct planting techniques for those in attendance.
A video link of proper tree planting, demonstrated by Bernie Carr, a certified ISA Arborist and owner of Organic Air Tree Service is attached:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9bmP3IIqNo0
Across the State of Ohio, Master Gardeners have been planting a variety of oaks, appropriate to their area.
Here is a list of all the counties where OSU Master Gardeners have participated in the program and planted Oak trees.
Ohio County List:
| Ashtabula | Erie | Licking | Portage | |||
| Athens | Fairfield | Logan | Putnam | |||
| Belmont | Fayette | Lorain | Richland | |||
| Brown | Franklin | Madison | Seneca | |||
| Champaign | Geauga | Mahoning | Shelby | |||
| Clark | Hamilton | Miami | Trumbull | |||
| Clermont | Hancock | Montgomery | Union | |||
| Clinton | Hardin | Paulding | Van Wert | |||
| Cuyahoga | Huron | Pickaway | Wayne | |||
| Delaware | Lake | Pike |
If an oak tree is selected for the appropriate site and planted correctly, it can thrive for hundreds of years. Oaks continue to be one of our most important tree species and they provide food and habitat for pollinators, wildlife, and are an important plant in our mature forests and woodlots. They provide high-quality lumber for woodworkers, builders, and carpenters. In addition, these woodlots sequester carbon.
In our urban areas, these oaks can help regulate temperate, providing beauty and a better quality of life for residents.
So, consider planting an oak. But do your homework. Some Oak species can become huge and need enough space so they can thrive.
More information on Oak selection can be found here:
https://bygl.osu.edu/index.php/node/1732
Happy Birthday America!
