Celebrate Your Favorite Trees
Welcome to Iowa Tree Stories, a community-powered map celebrating the trees that shape the University of Iowa campus and the broader Iowa City and Johnson County community.
Where’s your favorite tree? What does it look like throughout the seasons? What memories are rooted there? Maybe it’s the spot where you study between classes, meet up with friends, take a quiet walk, or simply pause for a breath of fresh air.
Tell us what makes your tree special. Share a story, a photo, or even a letter to your tree. You can write from your own perspective or imagine the tree telling its story in its own voice.
Together, these submissions will grow into a living archive of place and connection. Iowa Tree Stories highlights how trees are woven into daily routines, campus traditions, neighborhood life, and meaningful moments across our community.
Add your tree. Share your story. Help us grow the map.
Most Valuable Trees (MVT)
Some trees make a particularly strong impression. Use the Iowa Tree Stories form to nominate your tree for any of the 2026 MVTrees (Most Valuable Trees) categories below.
- Most Beloved Tree – A tree many people feel connected to
- Most Striking Tree – Noted for its shape, size, or seasonal beauty
- Best Shade Provider – A favorite place to pause, rest, or gather
- Most Resilient Tree – A tree that has endured change or challenge
- Hidden Gem – A lesser‑known tree with a devoted following
The UI MVTree (Most Valuable Trees) committee will review submissions and select a group of finalists in the fall. Community members will then be invited to vote for the MVTree winners in each category. Submit nominations by October 15.
The Story of Our Campus Trees
This is a collaborative project coordinated by the Office of Sustainability and the Environment, UI Facilities Management, Iowa Dance, and the LENA Project, and is part of our community Promise to the Planet.