Most of us—yes, even gardeners—fail to appreciate trees. We don't give them a second thought unless they're in the way or in the news.

But take one look at the National Register of Big Trees—the big list of the biggest trees in the United States—and you'll find a place where trees are always big, big, big news.

The register turns 70 years old this year, and American Forests, the group that maintains the list, is even older—135—yet they're determined to bring big-tree love into the 21st century with a searchable database and user-friendly Web site.

Big-tree lovers from all over the country, including you, can nominate champion trees for the database. Check out the gentle giants near you by contacting your state's big tree coordinator.

a big tree today.