2025 White Oak Acorn Collection Kicks Off October 15th in Tennessee

For Immediate Release

Candace Dinwiddie

Tennessee Forestry Association

cdinwiddie@tnforestry.com

(615) 883-3832

The Tennessee Forestry Association (TFA), in partnership with the Tennessee Department of Agriculture Division of Forestry (TDF) and University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture (UTIA) Extension, invites landowners, civic organizations, school groups, and citizens across the state to participate in this year’s White Oak Acorn Collection, running October 15 through November 15, 2025.

White oak plays a vital role in Tennessee’s forests, economy, and wildlife habitat. This collaborative effort helps ensure the long-term sustainability of this important hardwood species by collecting viable acorns that will be grown into seedlings and planted throughout the state.

Before collection begins, participants are encouraged to rake away old or damaged acorns beneath white oak trees to create a clean slate. Acorns that have already fallen earlier in the season are often not viable—they may still have caps attached, show cracks or holes, or have been eaten by wildlife.

When acorns begin falling in mid-October, collectors should follow these guidelines:

• Gather acorns from white oak trees. For help identifying trees, use the Tree Identification Guide and other resources available on tnforestry.com.

• Select only viable acorns—those with separated caps and no cracks, holes, or discoloration.

• Use breathable containers such as mesh bags, paper sacks, or cardboard boxes. Avoid sealed or plastic bags.

• Label each collection with your name, phone or email, collection date, location, and species. Use separate bags for different sites.

• Store acorns in a cool location such as a refrigerator, basement, or unheated garage—do not freeze.

• Deliver or ship acorns within seven days of collection to one of the designated coolers listed on TFA’s website.

Collected acorns will be sent to the East Tennessee Nursery in Delano, where they will be planted and grown into seedlings for future distribution across the state through public sales and reforestation programs.

Through this effort, Tennesseans can help conserve the ecological and economic benefits of white oak for future generations—ensuring healthy forests, wildlife habitats, and sustainable wood products for years to come.

For more information, collection instructions, or to locate your nearest cooler, visit www.tnforestry.com.

Those needing help identifying white oak trees or determining collection areas can contact their Area Forester for guidance. See area forester map at www.tnforestry.com.

About the Program Partners

The Tennessee Forestry Association (TFA) leads this initiative in collaboration with the Tennessee Department of Agriculture Division of Forestry (TDF) and University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture (UTIA) Extension. Together, these partners are committed to sustaining Tennessee’s white oak resources through education, outreach, and reforestation efforts statewide.