TCU Original Oak Achieves Heritage Tree Status

The magnificent live oak tree located along University Drive was officially approved for the Heritage Tree designation by the city of Fort Worth. The tree known as the TCU “original oak,” east of Reed and Jarvis halls, was planted early in TCU’s history when the campus was just developing. 

TCU applied for the tree’s recognition through the city of Fort Worth Forestry Department. The program promotes public awareness that trees are living and distinct resources for the Fort Worth community, documenting both living trees and memorialized trees that are no longer standing.  

“The TCU Grounds Team puts tons of effort into caring for all of our campus trees, but the Heritage Tree recognition for this particular tree is a meaningful reminder of just how much TCU has impacted the city,” said Erik Trevino, director of landscaping and grounds at TCU. “This tree has been enjoyed by the residents of Fort Worth and the campus community for decades.” 

Fort Worth approved the live oak tree for Heritage Tree status based on its well-documented history and contribution to campus, as well as the legacy of the tree throughout various phases of development. Fort Worth announced new Heritage Trees at the city’s Arbor Day celebration this month, and it is now featured on the city’s Heritage Tree map. 

“In the past few years, our team has installed a large mulch ring around this tree to help provide the best growing conditions to thrive,” Trevino said.

The recognition of this oak tree also aligns with TCU’s award-winning reputation as a Tree Campus USA, an honor bestowed on the university by the Arbor Day Foundation for eight consecutive years. As part of the status, TCU hosts an annual Arbor Day event. Most recently, the university planted a bur oak for Texas Arbor Day with the help of Garden Frogs and the Frog Aides student group.