Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) & Common Misconceptions

Let us set the record straight about our mission to preserve these amazing trees

FAQ's and Misconceptions about ArchangelArchangel Ancient Tree Archive is doing something truly unique. We are archiving the genetics of some of the oldest, largest, and perhaps most iconic trees on Earth. We do this by replanting clones of these ancient forest giants to capture carbon from the atmosphere, and to make sure the genetics of these trees – many of them threatened – will be around for future generations.

FAQ

How can I buy a Champion tree?

This is one of the most common questions we receive, and the answer might surprise you! Saving the genetics from Champion Trees and the last remaining old-growth forests is an arduous and expensive task. Our funding comes solely through donations to our mission.

We accept donations for projects to plant trees where they are needed, including, maybe, in your area. Donate Now

To buy trees for yourself or your group requires some study, and also the resources to follow a care plan. Some tree species require a $1,000 investment per tree. If you want to see if we can start a planting project in your area, or on your property, please fill out this form.

Do you need volunteers?

We do sometimes hold tree planting events, and occasionally need help in our Copemish, Michigan facility with tending and shipping saplings. If you want to help in these ways, please sign up to volunteer.

Can I sponsor a tree?

Yes! When you sponsor a tree, we will plant and care for one of our Champion trees, and you can receive a Certificate of Planting acknowledging your contribution. These personalized Certificates make thoughtful gifts. We plant trees in carefully selected locations on multiple continents. Plant a Tree now!

Can I help Archangel in my estate plan?

Yes! You can support our work into the future with a gift through your estate plan. A “charitable bequest” is a thoughtful way to ensure that Archangel can continue the work you care about for future generations. Click for more information.

How can I donate to Archangel Ancient Tree Archive?

Give online here or send a check by mail to:

Archangel Ancient Tree Archive
PO Box 98
Copemish, MI 49625
USA

Do you have a store?
Can I help to organize a fundraiser for Archangel?

Yes! Visit our Fundraiser Signup Page.

What are some other ways I can help your mission?

You can write letters to or call your local city arborist, your mayor, your congressperson, and ask them to start planting old-growth genetics in your area’s parks and lands and also to preserve the old-growth trees in your area. 

You can subscribe to the Archangel newsletter.

You can repost Archangel’s Facebook posts on your social media pages.

Where can I find more information or conduct research?
I found a giant, ancient, or important tree that I think you should clone. Will you?

As a small nonprofit, we can’t travel without funding. Yet, if you want a particular tree cloned, you can organize a local crowdfunding campaign using our tools here. Funding is necessary to provide for travel and other expenses.

I would like to plant a certain kind of tree, or I need tree planting advice like, "will it grow in my area?"

It is great that you want to plant trees! Local areas are best served by local conservation districts, extension offices, or local nurseries. You should check in your area online for your local resources.

Don't you have more frequently asked questions?

We sure do! We are working to add them to this page! Thanks for asking! Do you have one? Let us know!

Misconceptions

You're cloning trees? That sounds complicated and unnatural.

When we use the word “cloning,” we’re talking about a type of asexual plant propagation. Propagation is simply the process of creating more plants, through seeds, bulbs, cuttings, and more. Trees and plants naturally propagate themselves all the time. It may take some practice to propagate ancient redwoods, but cloning plants is something almost anyone can learn how to do!

You want to plant forests of clones? Bad idea!

Yes. We couldn’t agree more. Monoclonal forests can be very vulnerable to disease, pests and weather extremes. Genetic diversity keeps forests healthy. We believe that at an absolute maximum, only 10% of the forest should be “champion clones.” Restoring natural forests isn’t all Archangel seeks to do. Replanting trees in urban areas is another core part of our mission.

This project is just about climate change.

We’re not climate scientists, but we do know that trees are incredibly valuable to our planet. They breathe in carbon dioxide and exhale oxygen. They purify our air, water, and soil. Science shows they even improve our health and happiness.

You only work with giant sequoia and coast redwoods.

No. Actually, we’ve worked with 130 of the world’s 60,6065 tree species, including many species native to our home state of Michigan. Giant sequoia and coast redwoods are magnificent, yet our current goal is to propagate and plant champion trees of 100 of the world’s most ecologically most important species. Our forestry experts designed the list. Of those 100 species, we have so far cloned 19. When we plant our Champion Trees we want to avoid monoculture, so we make sure to intermix strains and species. Our motto is, “The right tree, in the right place.”

A small nonprofit planting trees isn't going to make a difference.

It’s true: we can’t do this alone. But we are the world’s leader in cloning the greatest number of Champion Trees of the most ecologically important species. That’s why AATA’s Tree School is such a fundamental (though often overlooked) part of our mission. In Tree School, we teach children basic techniques to create more trees – or as we like to say, we “propagate the propagators!” By empowering children, we can plant seeds of hope.

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