GROWTH VARIANT #28:  North 48:00:05 by West 89:35:15.  The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has compiled a document called the "Champion Tree List".  It gives the location and statistics for each of the largest specimens of Minnesota trees.  For over 20 years the Minnesota "Champion Birch" had been growing near the Canadian border just off the Pigeon River Estuary.  In severe winter storms of 96 the tree sustained major structural damage.  The following year the entire crown fell off leaving a 9' stump that still stands.  It was 110 years old at the time of its demise with a circumference of 108.5".  As of this date, no successor for the title of "Champion Birch" has been nominated.       DIRECTIONS FROM GALLERY:  1rst Avenue south to 6th street, East on 6th to Hennepin, North on Hennepin to Washington, East on Washington to Interstate 35, North on I-35 to Duluth, 61 north out of Duluth to entrance to Grand Portage State Park (vehicle permit required), from parking area take gravel trail.  Former "Champion Birch" Stump is on right side of trail 50-75 yards from parking lot.       RECOMMENDED PERFORMANCE: Take a cell sample from the "Champion Birch" stump.  Clone it.  Plant 40 acres with "Champion Birch" Clones.  Sell futures. Build condominiums.  Retire early.