The University of Missouri will replace the 15 pin oak trees around Francis Quadrangle beginning May 18 and the new Legacy Oaks will be planted over the summer.
The Legacy Oaks, donated by College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources alumni Wayne Lovelace and his daughter Kim Lovelace-Hainsfurther in 2019 and grown at MU's South Farm, are white oak species that will live for more than 200 years.
"For more than 70 years the pin oak trees have stood guard and provided a beautiful backdrop for the Columns and historic buildings here," said Michael Graves, associate vice chancellor for facilities. "However, these noble trees have reached the end of their natural lifespan and are a potential safety hazard to pedestrians and buildings. Replacing them is essential to the safety of our students, faculty, staff and visitors."
For the last four years the Mizzou Botanic Garden, faculty and staff experts, and arborists from outside the campus developed a plan to replace the aging trees to maintain the historic look of the Quad.
"Universities are a dynamic place, and their grounds and facilities are always changing," said Bill Ruppert, Mizzou Botanic Garden board member and former Mizzou employee. "But the Quad is the one place on campus I can come back to and have it feel the same as it was when I was on campus all those years ago. The Legacy Oaks project is going to ensure students 200 years from now have that same experience."
Categories: Missouri, Education