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- calendar_today October 21, 2026
Tennessee White Oak Acorn Collection Initiative Underway
The Tennessee Department of Agriculture Division of Forestry (TDF) is calling upon residents across the state to participate in a significant tree seed collection project. Tennesseans are encouraged to collect white oak acorns as part of a collaborative reforestation effort that will run through November 15.
Goal: Forest Restoration Across Tennessee
This initiative, formally known as the Tennessee White Oak Initiative, aims to address concerns about the declining regrowth of white oak trees in Tennessee's forests. State officials affirm that replenishing white oak populations is essential for maintaining healthy forest ecosystems and a sustainable future for the region's woodlands.
How Citizens Can Participate
The TDF encourages all residents to take part in the white oak acorn collection, regardless of whether they own wooded land. Participants are asked to collect, store, and deliver the acorns during the campaign period. Detailed information on collection methods and drop-off locations is available on the official campaign website.
Supporting Seedling Production and Statewide Restoration
The collected acorns will play a crucial role in supplying seeds to the East Tennessee Nursery in Polk County. This nursery is central to the ongoing reforestation efforts, as it supports seedling production for planting white oaks throughout the state. The initiative not only helps restore tree populations but also ensures a sustainable supply of seedlings for years to come.
State Forester’s Call for Public Participation
State Forester Heather Slayton emphasized the importance of involving the public in these reforestation efforts. “We welcome the public to participate in this initiative, whether they own wooded land or not and help collect acorns that will grow the future giants of our forests,” Slayton said. By participating, Tennesseans can contribute directly to the future of the state’s forests.
Background: The White Oak Collection Program
This year marks the sixth annual white oak acorn collection program in Tennessee. Over time, the effort has become a cornerstone of the state’s broader forest restoration and reforestation strategy. By continually collecting and growing new seedlings, the program helps boost tree populations and supports a vital ecological resource.
Learn More and Get Involved
For those interested in joining the initiative or seeking additional details about Tennessee forestry and ongoing forest restoration projects, more information is available through the Tennessee Department of Agriculture Division of Forestry’s website. The department continues to advocate for public engagement as a key element in addressing tree population decline across the state.
Source: wkrn.com.
